Upper Keys Weekly 20-1231

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

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2020 IN REVIEW

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

NUMBER OF THE WEEK

9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050 Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com

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Se habla español

THE MARATHON WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR

BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

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News Deadline

Tuesday Noon

Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m.

175,000

According to Gov. Ron DeSantis, more than 175,000 Floridians have received a vaccine for COVID-19 as of Dec. 30, 2020. The state is currently in its third week of vaccine administration. Florida was the first state in the nation to begin offering vaccines to staff and residents of the more than 4,000 long-term care facilities and we were also the first state in the nation to begin offering vaccines to EMTs and paramedics.

THE YEAR’S BIGGEST STORY IS STILL BEING WRITTEN MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

RECALLING THE COVID REALITY

R

emember when it all started?

How little we knew, how quickly things kept changing? How inundated we were with information, misinformation and opinions?

We at Keys Weekly went back to the beginning, reviewing each issue, week by week, case by case, rule by rule; recalling nine months of the new normal that will forever define 2020.

Health Department Administrator Bob Eadie used a hurricane metaphor when describing the approaching COVID storm back in March. ​“Right now, we are in the cone of uncertainty,” Eadie told county commissioners. “We know something is coming our way, but we don’t know what the final outcome will be. And we also know there are some things we need to be prepared for. I don’t want to minimize the spread of coronavirus, but it is not an end-of-theworld situation.”

That was in early March, before the county saw its first positive case, before toilet paper became a precious commodity. Businesses were still open and masks were a protective measure, not a political statement.

We were still joking awkwardly about elbow bumps replacing handshakes and we fumbled clumsily with Zoom, feverishly clicking links, apps and invites until something connected. We didn’t know to mute ourselves, screen-sharing was for the cool kids and we learned to scroll through the gallery view.

COVID tests were still trickling into the Keys, so positive cases were still in single digits.

The word “coronavirus” appeared for the first time in the Keys Weekly

College students receive word in mid-March that their spring break was extended a week as the coronavirus begins to make its presence known on a national scale.

MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

on Feb. 27, when the virus was still regarded as a problem in China that was only indirectly affecting the United States and, more specifically, the Florida Keys.

“China virus sinks Keys’ lobster prices,” read our February headline that described the struggles of local fishermen, who typically sell more than 80% of their spiny lobster haul to China. But flights weren’t landing in China and people there weren’t permitted to dine out.

MARCH The last cruise ship departed Key West on March 14. Three days later, on March 17, sh** got real.

College Spring Breakers learned while they relaxed on Key West beaches that their break had been extended a week. Gov. Ron DeSantis ordered the closure of all bars and reduced restaurant capacities to 50% with just a few hours’ notice on St. Patrick’s Day. Monroe County followed suit, but Key West prohibited all on-site dining at restaurants.

Take-out and delivery offers filled Facebook as servers became delivery people.

The same day, a giant tarp covered the Southernmost Point monument and Mallory Square closed to prevent gatherings of more than 10

people. Theaters were closed, events were canceled.

The Keys’ case count was still at zero on March 18, although testing efforts were just getting started.

The Florida Department of Health was rolling out its COVID dashboard, tracking cases by county.

“I’ve never seen anything like this.

At least with a hurricane you can see it coming,” said Danny Hughes, owner of Two Friends Patio Restaurant. “I just wish the city would match its restrictions with the state and county.”

By March 25, there were eight cases in the Keys.

The storm Eadie described had arrived in earnest by March 27, when Sheriff Rick Ramsay and his deputies erected two checkpoints just inside the island chain to keep visitors out.

Monroe County schools extended their spring break and made plans to distribute meals to needy students.

Masks became more prevalent, but weren’t yet mandated.

And still the headlines, news releases, announcements and updates filled our inboxes hourly. The Keys Weekly evolved into a digital daily news outlet, updating its website and social media accounts dozens of times a day.

2020 IN REVIEW

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

Monroe County sheriff’s deputies staff the checkpoints at the top of the Keys from March 27 to June 1, keeping visitors — and the virus — out of the islands. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

Key West officials covered and closed the Southernmost Point monument on March 17, when bars closed throughout Florida. Key West ended on-site dining at restaurants while Monroe County followed the governor’s lead and allowed for 50% capacity.

MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

APRIL On April 1, the governor issued a Safer at Home directive. That month saw the Seven Mile Bridge Run go virtual. Key West started repaving projects downtown while no one was in town. Testing — and case counts — continued to increase. Online learning began for Keys schools, creating child care challenges for parents who were still working. Thousands of tourism workers lost their jobs and found themselves waiting in drive-through food distribution lines.

The need for food assistance tripled. SOS Foundation food pantry set up weekly distribution sites while local restaurants pitched in and fed their communities.

The checkpoints were drawing unwanted attention and deputies began noticing fake reentry placards.

Monroe County had lost three residents to COVID by April 8, and marinas and airports came under fire as loopholes for illegal visitor arrivals.

On April 19, DeSantis announced that school campuses would remain closed for the remainder of the school year.

“Flattening the curve” became the collective goal and prompted discussions about a phased reopening and, on April 27, Key West reopened its parks, beaches and outdoor recreation facilities to residents only.

The checkpoints remained. But Keys business owners started urging officials to loosen restrictions and accused them of overreach.

County commissioners came under fire in late April, having enacted the county’s emergency pay policy that allowed employees to quickly accrue $1 million in special COVID overtime.

On April 30, the county commissioners reluctantly agreed to pay the overtime, but amend the pay policy.

The Marilyn Monroe statue in front of Tropic Cinema wears a mask as a sign of the times. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

MAY On May 4, DeSantis began a Phase 1 reopening plan, allowing restaurants to operate at 25% capacity while Key West officials were forced to start considering the cancellation of Fantasy Fest, powerboat races and other special events.

The Florida Keys slowly came back to life, as nonessential businesses reopened and business owners’ complaints about overreach grew more urgent.

The checkpoints faced legal challenges and storefronts began to empty on Duval Street.

High school graduations were held online, although Somerset Island Prep drew national attention with its Jet Ski graduation.

SUMMERTIME And then, on June 1, the checkpoints came down and the case count went up, as everyone had expected. But it kept going up, locally and nationally.

Mask mandates were argued, amended and mandated in the city of Key West.

Event cancellations continued. Cities cleared their event calendars through October and then into the new year.

The news started to improve for the island chain by late August, when the curve started to flatten. The county’s case county was at 1,700 and seemed to be leveling off, leading businesses to continue to call for looser restrictions.

City and county officials turned their attention to economic recovery and roundtable discussions were held with all segments of the community.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER Talk started turning to topics other than coronavirus. The election took center stage, as decisions about masks and restrictions continued to divide the islands.

Masks became a political statement and police were losing the enforcement battle as downtown Key West visitors refused to wear masks.

A Facebook post by Key West cartoonist Dan Schwab pokes fun at nonresidents’ poor attempts to create fake entry placards to gain access to the island chain while checkpoints were in place from March 27 to June 1. DAN SCHWAB/Contributed

Cases were on the rise again, with Key West feeling the brunt of the increase.

NOVEMBER Key West Mayor Teri Johnston proposed a midnight curfew for Key West, saying people downtown were showing blatant disregard for the city’s mask rules. Business owners united in opposition and felt their industry was being unfairly targeted.

Johnston ultimately withdrew the overall curfew proposal, but Key West was in a state of “mask chaos” as political divisions focused on face coverings and their effectiveness.

Monroe County continued to provide businesses more discretion about their own mask requirements.

DECEMBER On Dec. 3, Johnston announced a 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew in Key West for the New Year weekend, prompting opposition from the business community and a lawsuit. A federal judge upheld the city’s curfew.

As of Dec. 28, the Keys’ case count was at 4,168 positive cases and 34 deaths.

And the biggest story of the year was still being written.

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SEEN AROUND TOWN

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

A HUNDRED YEARS OF HOSPITALITY

CASA MARINA CELEBRATES A CENTURY

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K

ey West’s most iconic hotel celebrated a 100-year legacy of luxury with a champagne luncheon on Dec. 30 in the hotel’s grand ballroom.

Railroad magnate Henry Morrison Flagler conceived the glamorous hotel, but died before construction began in 1918. Its architects ensured that Flagler’s vision was honored.

President Warren G. Harding checked in three days after the hotel opened and became the first of many dignitaries, celebrities and world leaders who stayed at the hotel.

The Casa Marina’s role in the community evolved throughout its century. The U.S. Navy bought it in 1942 to house officers throughout World War II. The 1950s saw its renaissance as a luxury hotspot for Hollywood celebrities. During the Cuban Missile Crisis, the hotel was used by the U.S. Army’s Sixth Missile Battalion.

Casa Marina fell into a period of decline through the 1970s and ’80s. But a complete overhaul in 2008 restored the grand dame to its original splendor, befitting the Hilton name. The hotel is now one of Hilton’s Waldorf Astoria luxury properties.

“Conrad Hilton believed in making the world a better place through travel,” Hilton Executive VP Danny Hughes said in a recorded video message played at the luncheon, adding that the Casa Marina is a shining and enduring example of that philosophy.

The luncheon included recollections by Key West natives, many of whom attended high school proms and homecoming dances at the hotel. After lunch, a 100-year time capsule containing photos, restaurant menus and current newspaper clippings was buried on site.

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6 1. During the Cuban Missile Crisis of October 1962, the U.S. Army commandeered the Casa Marina Hotel.

2. A historic postcard shows bathing beauties at the Casa Marina pool. CONTRIBUTED 3. Andy Rosuck, director of sales and marketing at the Casa Marina Resort, describes historic events at the hotel attended by President Harry Truman. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

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4. Kevin Jacobs, executive vice president and CFO for Hilton, and John Trovato, managing director of the Casa Marina Resort, celebrate the resort’s 100th anniversary during a champagne luncheon on Dec. 30. BRITT MYERS/Keys Weekly 5. Monroe County Mayor Michelle Coldiron and Key West City Manager Greg Veliz share memories of the legendary Casa Marina during the hotel’s 100th anniversary celebration. BRITT MYERS/Keys Weekly 6. Andy Rosuck and Evelyn Summer of the Casa Marina, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, with Marriott’s Stephanie Wiese and George Galvan enjoy the 100th anniversary celebration at Henry Flagler’s iconic hotel. BRITT MYERS/ Keys Weekly

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

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JOIN OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS AS A

GOVERNOR’S OFFICE APPOINTMENT OR PRIVATE SECTOR BUSINESS MEMBER

The Early Learning Coalition of Miami-Dade/Monroe is seeking individuals to join our Board of Directors as a governor’s appointment or private sector business member (volunteer) from Monroe County.

A private sector business member must meet the following requirements: An owner having at least a 10 percent ownership interest in the business entity; or The chief executive or operating officer of the business entity; or A business executive or employee of the business entity who is at the management level or higher with optimum policymaking or hiring authority; or An individual who previously met one of the above criteria but who is retired from the business entity.

MORE INFO? Please contact Lisa Sanabria at lsanabria@elcmdm.org Gubernatorial Appointment Application https://www.flgov.com/gubernatorial-appointment/ Private Sector Application Visit www.elcmdm.org to download the application.

About the Early Learning Coalition of Miami-Dade/Monroe: The Early Learning Coalition of Miami-Dade/Monroe is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring that children in Miami-Dade and Monroe counties have an opportunity to receive high-quality early education. The organization was established following the enactment of the 1999 School Readiness Act. The Early Learning Coalition supports the school readiness of more than 50,000 children ages birth to 12 years old through a variety of innovative prekindergarten and early learning programs, while also encouraging parental involvement in the quest for educational success. Through a community-based, collaborative approach, the Early Learning Coalition of Miami- Dade/Monroe is committed to promoting early learning, advocating for better public policies on behalf of children, and preparing every child for success in both school and life.

2020 IN REVIEW

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

NEW LEADERSHIP FIERY STATE REP PRIMARY, CRUISE SHIP REFERENDUM AND MARTINEZ UPSET

M

ailers urging residents to vote for candidates, from Congress to local races, packed mailboxes this past election season. And some races even got testy as a result. The 2020 election season was one to remember, from the presidential race all the way down to the race for county commission, which saw a bit of an upset. Here are some of the top stories from the 2020 election.

County commissioner Eddie Martinez, left, and former county commissioner Heather Carruthers.

Longtime Islamorada resident and former village councilman Jim Mooney won the 2020 election to become the next state representative for the Keys and south Miami-Dade. CONTRIBUTED

MOONEY WINS PRIMARY, DEFEATS BARRAS FOR STATE REP A testy Republican primary that saw scores of attack mailers highlighted the 2020 race for state representative. One of the main targets was longtime resident Jim Mooney, who ended up winning during the general election to represent the Keys and south Miami-Dade in Tallahassee. Mailers also went out accusing candidate Rhonda Rebman Lopez of taking money from the Nicholas Maduro regime. And Alexandria Suarez was the subject of controversy over a text attack against Mooney from a PAC that appeared to support her. Suarez said her camp didn’t send anything out, and that the disclaimer in the text was inaccurate and fraudulent to make it look like she was the one behind it. When all was said and done, Mooney secured the primary victory on Aug. 18 with 44% of the vote in Monroe County and 18% of the vote in Miami-Dade. Mooney went on to beat Democrat Clint Barras in the Nov. 3 general election, having garnered 57% of the vote in Monroe County and 52% of the vote in Miami-Dade.

MARTINEZ UPSETS CARRUTHERS IN COUNTY COMMISSION RACE It was the upset of the election as Republican newcomer Eddie Martinez defeated Democrat incumbent Heather Carruthers for Monroe County Commission’s seat 3.

The race was too close to call on Election Night, leading to a recount that ended with Martinez still the winner. Martinez received 23,210 votes while Carruthers garnered 23,078 votes. While the results were in Martinez’s favor, it didn’t end there. On Nov. 23, a lawsuit filed by Carruthers against Martinez, the supervisor of elections and canvassing board claimed that Martinez didn’t live in the district on Election Day. Therefore, he would be ineligible to hold office. The case, filed in circuit court in Key West, is pending.

CRUISE SHIP REFERENDUM PASSES; LAWSUITS EXPECTED Key West voters handily approved three changes to the city’s charter that will significantly reduce the number of cruise ships and people that can visit Key West once the industry again gets underway. The amendment limiting the number of people who can disembark from cruise ships each day in Key West passed with 63% approval. The amendment prohibiting ships with a capacity of 1,300 or more people passed with 61% approval and the amendment giving priority to cruise lines with the best health and environmental records secured an 81% approval. So, what’s next? Well, lawsuits are anticipated.

And what about the privately owned cruise ship dock at Pier B, behind Margaritaville Key West Resort & Marina? The owners of that facility have joined one existing lawsuit that questions the city’s authority to mandate costly reductions to its business operations and officials expect them to file their own suit. In addition, several local businesses that depend on revenue from cruise ships and their passengers also had retained the Horan Law Firm to represent them even before voters approved the amendments on Nov. 3.

More than 60% of voters approved the proposed amendments to the city charter that will limit the size and capacity of cruise ships that can visit Key West’s public cruise ship docks.

LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

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KEY WEST

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

JUDGE UPHOLDS KEY WEST’S NEW YEAR CURFEW RULING STATES THE CURFEW DOES NOT VIOLATE CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS

F

ederal Judge Lawrence King on Dec. 29 ruled the New Year’s curfew imposed by the City of Key West does not violate protections under the U.S. Constitution and denied a temporary restraining order that would have banned enforcement, the Key West Chamber of Commerce reported.

Key West resident Andrew Day filed the suit, saying the city’s emergency directive was a violation of his First Amendment rights. On Dec. 28, one day before the hearing, the city clarified its emergency directive to make clear the restriction on public gatherings around New Year’s was adopted in good faith, and that the public interest exceeds the claims of the plaintiff.

Day’s attorney, William Athas of Miami, hinged his case on protections granted by the Constitution, arguing those rights remain even in

times of an emergency. Athas claimed the city’s curfew would detain 25,000 citizens in their residences for three nights, an unreasonable burden, and cited a recent case decided by the U.S. Supreme Court in favor of the Catholic Diocese in New York, in which the justices said the Constitution cannot be set aside, even during a pandemic.

King ruled otherwise, writing “The City of Key West has a substantial government interest in preserving and protecting the health of its citizens. The Key West Emergency Directive is narrowly tailored to an eight-hour period covering three evenings, and it leaves open ample alternative modes of communication and assembly. The directive therefore survives intermediate scrutiny.”

More than 140 viewers attended the online hearing Tuesday morning.

— Contributed

SURVEY SAYS...

O n Dec. 4, Key West Mayor Teri Johnston issued an emergency directive for a New Year’s curfew in the Southernmost City. The curfew covers the three nights from Thursday, Dec. 31 through the morning of Sunday, Jan. 3. The directive states that from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. those three nights, all non-essential businesses are to close and persons be at their residences or hotels, in an effort to quell the large public gatherings that typically happen and prevent the spread of COVID-19. When word spread throughout Florida, expected hotel occupancy went from 95% to 40% as would-be visitors canceled reservations. On Dec. 29, a federal judge upheld a challenge to the curfew directive.

The Keys Weekly asked readers the following:

“Do you agree with the City of Key West to enforce a 10 p.m. curfew on New Year’s Eve?” AGREE 52.7% (145 respondents)

DISAGREE 38.2% (105 respondents)

AGREE, BUT WITH A LATER CURFEW 9.1% (25 respondents)

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

Position Opening: Full-Time City Administrator The City of Key Colony Beach is seeking a Full-Time City Administrator. Candidates must have the equivalent training, education, and experience of a Bachelor’s/Master’s Degree in a related field and the requisite knowledge, skills and abilities to carry out the essential functions of the job in accordance with the job description.

This is a contract position with a salary range of $80,000 $100,000 dependent on qualifications and experience. The job description is available upon request to City Clerk Rebecca Todd.

The job application is available on the City’s website, www.keycolonybeach.net/forms/. Interested candidates

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A New Year Prayer Thank you Lord for giving me the brand new year ahead.

Help me live the way I should as each new day I tread.

Give me gentle wisdom that I might help a friend, courage so a shoulder I might lend.

The year ahead is empty, help me fill it with good things each new day is filled with joy and happiness it brings.

Amen

We are streaming our Daily Devotions at 8am Compline at 9pm & Sunday Prayers at 9am on our Facebook page @stcolumbamarathon In person services under the Pavilion at 9am and 11am. Space is limited

May the Peace of the Lord be always with you WE OFFER A COMMUNITY OF PEACE, LOVE AND UNDERSTANDING.

St. Columba Episcopal Church 451 West 52nd St, Marathon Fl 305 743-6412 • www.stcolumbamarathon.org

CHECK OUT OUR DAILY CUPCAKE SPECIALS

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2020 IN REVIEW

Arthur Bertha Cristobal Dolly Edouard Fay Gonzalo Hanna Isaias Josephine Kyle Laura Marco Nana Omar Paulette Rene Sally Teddy Vicky Wilfred Alpha Beta Gamma Delta Epsilon Zeta Eta Theta Iota Kappa Lambda Mu Nu Xi Omicron Pi Rho Sigma Tau Upsilon Phi Chi Psi Omega

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020 SARA MATTHIS

sara@keysweekly.com

A RECORD BREAKER

KEYS ESCAPE MAJOR WRATH

The tropical storm tracks of the 2020 season looks like someone dumped a plate of spaghetti on the U.S. and Atlantic Ocean. MASTEROGARFIELD/WikiProject

T

o mangle Charles Dickens: “It was the worst of times, and the best of times.” The worst, because it was a record-breaking hurricane season. The best, because the Keys went largely unscathed.

Even before the season started, folks were jittery for a good reason — hurricane shelters and coronavirus don’t play well together.

“We’ve been telling people that they are safer at home and to isolate and to stay away from people,” said Frank Rollason, Miami-Dade’s emergency management director. If a hurricane was to approach Florida, the message would change totally. “We are going to be telling people that this impending peril is more imminently dangerous and that you have to move.”

The comments came before the official start of the hurricane season … and so did the storms. Tropical storms Arthur and Bertha formed before June 1.

It was an incredible season — the most active on record. There were 31 subtropical cyclones, of which 30 were named. Of the 30 named storms, 13 turned into hurricanes and six into ma-

jor hurricanes. It was the only the second season on record when, having run out of regular names, officials resorted to using the Greek letter storm-naming system. And of those Greek storms, Eta would cause the most damage in the Florida Keys when it crossed the Upper Keys on Nov. 9.

Winds exceeded 60 mph and brought down large limbs and debris onto homes and roads in Key Largo.

Eta’s wicked winds resulted in several trees crashing down onto homes, including one on Transylvania Avenue where Dylan Deese and his dog, Aries, were at the time. He was enjoying what he calls a “normal Sunday night” watching a movie on his couch when he saw a tree “coming through the door.” Then his roof came down and pinned him under debris for a minute. Deese received 13 staples on his head from the incident.

His home was destroyed.

According to Jon Rizzo of the National Weather Service’s Key West office, the highest wind gust was 71 mph, recorded at the Carysfort Lighthouse, just east of Key Largo. Another unofficial report of a 58 mph wind gust was recorded at Rock Harbor. According to the weather service, the eye of Tropical Storm Eta moved across Lower Matecumbe at 11 p.m.

The worst flooding occurred in the Upper Keys on the Oceanside, as well as Barnes and Card Sounds and Blackwater Sound.

The rest of the Florida Keys experienced Tropical Storm Eta very differently. Like Rizzo predicted before the storm made landfall, the heaviest rains and winds were on the outer edges of the storm. As it passed over the Middle Keys, a hole opened up with little wind or rain.

“The winds were weaker on the south side of the system, as well as near the center,” Rizzo said. “A few thousand feet up, the winds were blowing 30 to 40 mph, but it needs strong showers and squalls to get the wind” on the ground. “We also had sprinkles and drizzle in the Middle and Lower Keys, while the Upper Keys experienced strong showers and lightning strikes. In fact, (mainland) South Florida’s rain totals were much higher — in the double digits.”

Oh, but poor Louisiana. It had five direct hits.

• The weak Tropical Depression Cristobal struck southeast Louisiana on June 7.

• Hurricane Laura hit Cameron, Louisiana on Aug. 27 with sustained winds of 150 mph.

• Hurricane Marco weakened considerably before making landfall south of New Orleans with winds of 40 mph.

• Hurricane Delta hit Creole, Louisiana on Oct. 9 as a Category 2 storm.

• Hurricane Zeta made landfall on Oct. 27 in Cocodrie, Louisiana with sustained winds of 11o mph.

Aside from Tropical Storm Eta, the storms with the closest approaches to the Keys were Isais in late July and Laura in early September.

This tree fell onto the Key Largo home where Dylan Deese and his dog were.

JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

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14

2020 IN REVIEW

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

SARA MATTHIS sara@keysweekly.com

A TALE OF TWO ECONOMIES SOME STRUGGLE, SOME PROSPER

I

n 2020, the saying “We’re all in the same boat” has largely been disproved by the U.S. economy. Some industries and employees are thriving, while others are barely hanging on.

UNEMPLOYMENT Monroe County has always enjoyed the lowest unemployment rates in Florida, usually less than 3%. (Many say this is because the unemployed cannot afford to live in the most expensive county in the state.) But during the pandemic, that number swelled to about 32.2%, according to Florida’s unemployment dashboard. Workers in the accommodation and food industries were hardest hit, followed by the self-employed who struggled to provide “acceptable” documentation to the state. The state’s unemployment system underperformed badly in the beginning of the pandemic, with the system crashing and unemployed unable to apply. Then applicants waited weeks for seemingly random amounts of money to be deposited into their accounts.

“It wasn’t long before I realized how dysfunctional it all was,” said Carol Tedesco back in May, a self-employed worker in Key West. “In the beginning, I thought it was a database issue. Now, I’m seeing it as a combination of database issues, incompetence and smoke-andmirror tactics.”

According to the state, as of Dec. 29 it has paid $19.7 billion in unemployment since March 15, 2020.

The good news is that the Keys seem to be recovering better than other tourist hot spots like Orlando, according to a presentation to the Monroe County Board of Commissioners in November by Hank Fishkind of PFM Consulting.

Back in April, almost every tax-paying American received $1,200 via direct deposit as soon as the CARES Act passed. In the bill passed last week, the same group would receive another $600.

IT PAYS TO KNOW YOUR BANKER The federal $2.2 trillion CARES Act, or COVID-19 bill, was signed into law in late March. Part of it — $350 billion — was set aside for the PPP, or payroll protection program. Essentially, employers could apply and then use the money, among other things, to pay their idle or furloughed workers. Just last week, Congress authorized a second round of PPP funding of $284 billion.

Employers applied through banks for the Small Business Administration loans.

The roll-out of the first loans was fraught with confusion. In the first round of the program, the funds were snapped up quickly and many business owners were left out in the cold. Those who succeeded told stories of a close relationship with local bankers willing to walk them through the steps as the banks also received onthe-job training.

“In defense of all banks participating in PPP, this is an unprecedented situation and no bank was set up to handle it,” said Stephanie Scuderi of Centennial Bank in April.

REAL ESTATE BOOM During the pandemic, two industries in the Florida Keys were outperforming all the others — real estate and construction.

At the beginning of June, Realtors in the Florida Keys were banking on something they called “pent-up demand.” Sales were down that month by more than 20% compared to 2019 numbers.

A month later, sales exploded.

In Monroe County, sales of residential properties jumped 50% over 2019 numbers. In 2019, 191 homes sold. In 2020, the number soared to 286. In terms of dollar volume for the entire Florida Keys, that represents $209 million in sales in July, an increase of $72 million just for that month compared to July 2019.

Middle Keys attorney Tom Wright has worked almost exclusively in real estate closings since 1987.

“I don’t think I ever imagined a year that there would be a pandemic and yet we are doing a record amount of business,” Wright said.

Lauren Varney, marketing director with Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty, said property sales in the Keys were across the board, from affordable to high-end.

“We’ve found that people want out of big cities, and after spending so much time in their homes, they’ve re-evaluated what they want and are either relocating or finally making those second- or third-home purchases that they might have second-guessed in a more normal environment,” she said.

The amount of movement in the real estate market was also good for construction, as new buyers sought to personalize the home, or existing homeowners sought to make the home more appealing in the stay-at-home climate.

There was one other beneficiary to the real estate boom: moving companies.

Experts examined the increased demand for one-way rentals to try and pinpoint the migration between cities. Locally, franchise owners of U-haul rental truck fleets say business is at an all-time high.

15

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

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16

COMMUNITY NEWS

OBITUARY

Richard Charles Heddings Jr. 1959-2020 Richard Heddings, also known to many as Charlie, passed on to the next part of his life. Charlie was born in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania and moved to the Keys when he was 10 years old. Charlie worked as a carpenter for over 30 years. He dedicated his life to his family and he will be deeply missed. Charlie is survived by his mom Blanche Forsberg, brother Shane Heddings, son Richard Heddings III (Brandi), daughter Anna Cianciolo (Tommy) and his grandchildren TJ, Marcus, Benjamin and Emma. His children held a private service. Prayers are greatly appreciated.

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

BRIEFLY Curbing illegal dumping on U.S. 1 in Key Largo Residents who are illegally dumping tree trimmings and other yard waste along U.S. 1 in Key Largo may soon be getting a visit from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.

The sheriff’s office is finding large amounts of yard waste along U.S. 1 from about MM 91 to about MM 106.

The sheriff’s office is looking for compliance first on this issue, and asks for help spreading the word: Dumping yard waste along U.S. 1 is illegal and can result in fines, mandatory court appearances or possibly a visit to jail.

Legal ways to remove yard waste can be found on the Monroe County website at www. monroecounty-fl.gov/solidwaste.

Firm sought to help with search for new village manager Islamorada is seeking a search firm that is capable of providing all necessary expertise to assist the village council in filling the village manager vacancy.

Firms specializing in recruitment for municipal organizations and/ or with extensive executive-level personnel recruitment experience, particularly within Florida, are invited to submit proposals. Proposals will be accepted through Jan. 15, 2021.

The proposals will be reviewed by village staff and those qualified for consideration will be published with a council meeting agenda item. The Village Council will then make the selection at the public meeting. The chosen firm will provide all necessary services, from developing a candidate profile through the interview and contract negotiation process.

Finance Director Maria Basset has agreed to continue to serve as the acting village manager until a new village manager begins employment. A summer 2021 start date is anticipated.

Qualified firms listed on the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) website will be emailed a notification of the open bid. Interested search firms can find the request for proposal on Demandstar or posted on the Open Bids page of the village website.

Cocaine packages found floating off Lower Keys Some 74 pounds of cocaine was found by a fisherman about 15 miles offshore and south of Sugarloaf Key on Dec. 23.

Lower Keys Deputy Brandon Warren was on marine patrol at 1:54 p.m. when he was informed of the floating packages.

Because the packages were in federal waters, Warren alerted the U.S. Border Patrol and an agent joined him en route to the fisherman’s location.

All the packages were placed in Warren’s patrol boat and then turned over to the U.S. Border Patrol.

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office had no further involvement in this incident.

Community Health Improvement Plan partners honored The Florida Department of Health in Monroe County recognized the three chairpeople for Monroe County’s Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) and associated county health priorities.

The three are: Michael Cunningham, CEO, Florida Keys AHEC and chairman for access to care health priority; Maureen Dunleavy, LMHC, regional vice president of Guidance/Care Center Inc. and chairwoman for mental health and substance abuse health priority; and Jody Gross, RN, MSN, Leadership Monroe county health coordinator and chairwoman for Choose Health – Partnership for a Healthier Florida Keys health in all policies health priority.

The three were recognized for their dedication and tireless work toward the betterment of health among Monroe County’s residents. The county’s health priorities, as identified by key stakeholders and residents in the 2019-2022 CHIP, include Access to Care, Mental Health and Substance Abuse, and Health in All Policies. For more information about the CHIP and to read the reports, visit monroe.flhealth. gov/chip or email dohmonroe@ flhealth.gov.

Island Boat Show set for Jan. 22 Boating and watersports aficionados can browse among boats from top brands at the annual Island Boat Show set for Friday through Sunday, Jan. 2224, at Hawks Cay Resort, MM 61 on Duck Key. Many of the boat dealers in the Keys as well as several manufacturers in South Florida will showcase their newest models, from fishing skiffs to large offshore center-console vessels.

Boat brands and vendors expected to be featured at the open-air show include Hell’s Bay Boatworks, Boats Direct USA, Riva Motorsports, Bonefish Boatworks, Bahama Boatworks, Streamline Performance Boats, Hola Yachts and Belzona Boats.

Sea trials can be arranged, according to organizers. A roster of exhibitors is at islandboatshow. com/exhibitors.

The event also features exhibitors selling marine-related gear and merchandise. Attendees can bid on silent auction items, take part in raffles for fishing tackle and merchandise, and enjoy food and drinks.

The show will take place from 1 to 5 p.m. Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Entry for all three days is $10 per person and parking is free, with shuttle service available.

The Island Boat Show is an entirely outdoor event and will incorporate recommended coronavirus health safety protocols.

All proceeds benefit Upper and Middle Keys college scholarships and missions and ministries of Islamorada’s Island Community Church.

17

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

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18

2020 IN REVIEW

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020 1¢

I screwed up already. 2021 will be my year.

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 9, 2020

Who had the marmot bubonic plague for apocalypse bingo in July?

TURTLE TALE

MUSIC MAKER Band teacher shaping lives| P. 20

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 27, 2020

COVID COUNT

Corona cases, hospitalizations down | P. 4

LIVIN’ LIFE

A chat with an avid diver, photographer | P. 28

Feasibility study in the works | P. 8

one more time | P. 51

1¢

A corona and two hurricanes, you say? That’ll be $20.20.

TOLL TIME?

UNDERWATER ENJOYMENT Dive legend goes under

BAYGRASS AND BREW Annual music fest returns| P. 16

Allie returns to Alligator| P. 14

1¢

Jerry Greenberg, 93, takes pictures of the reef on a recent celebratory dive.

LAD AKINS/Contributed

An aerial view of Jewfish Creek Bridge in Key Largo.

DAVID GROSS/Contributed

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2020

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CROWNED BEST COVERS E

ye-catching. Jaw-dropping. Mind-blowing.

Those are the things the Keys Weekly contemplates for potential covers every week in the lead-up to print day. While it’s no easy task to pick the best, here are the top three covers of 2020 from Key West, Marathon and the Upper Keys. — Weekly staff report

Bette Zirkelbach, manager of the Turtle Hospital in Marathon, and Courtney Benson, Key Dives marine conservation coordinator, prepare to release Allie the sea turtle off the dive boat. A group of divers rescued Allie, who had fibropapillomatosis, off Alligator Reef in May 2019. Photo was taken by Ian Wilson.

COVID-19 What locals need to know about virus | P.8

Jerry Greenburg, 93, takes a picture of the reef on a celebratory dive earlier in the year. Greenberg changed the game in underwater photography and diving, with the first underwater color photograph cover for National Geographic in 1962. Photo was taken by Lad Akins.

1¢

10 days until the Original Marathon Seafood Festival!

An aerial view of Jewfish Creek Bridge in Key Largo during a summer day. Photo was taken by David Gross through use of a drone.

1¢

ASTRO-NOT-YETS.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Go home, Eta. You’re drunk.

1 1¢

RENTAL LAW UNCHANGED State won’t act on regulations | P.4

OPENING SOON!

BUSYNESS Event-packed weekend in Marathon | P.22

GOOD NEWS 4 KIDS

City reveals splash park rendering | P.4

Drama students set to entertain | P.24

RUNNING FOR GOLD MHS cross country team races for state title | P.12

GIRL POWER SEEKING SHELTER MHS ANNOUNCES HURRICANE RULES

TOP STUDENTS | P.22

SO WRONG, IT’S FUNNY

IN PANDEMIC | P.4

OPEN HOUSE MON-WED JUNE 1ST-3RD 1-3PM

8am - 4:30pm

Pancake Breakfast 8am Parade 11:00am50/50’s Lots of Vendors

Free Admission • Free Parking • Old Fashioned Fun!

Turn Oceanside off U.S. 1 at MM 53.5 traffic light A Not For Profit Organization

More info: KCBCA.ORG

FloridaKeysRealEstateGroup.com

Bands All Day Barracuda Races

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Alex Rickert smiles as he and the cast rehearse for the March show of “How to Succeed in Business� at Marathon Community Theater. Coronavirus severely curtailed the rest of the season. The photo is by James Christopher.

1¢

Merry band of chuckleheads‌

315 E OCEAN KEY COLONY BEACH 3 BED 3 BATH WATERFRONT 1/2 DUPLEX $695,000 | 1,500 SQ FT | MLS# 590868

The Keys Weekly’s talented graphic designers — Javier Reyes and Irene de Bruijn — always come up with a creative way to interpret the week’s news. The “torn� cover revealing a beautiful Keys scene conveys the impending re-opening of the Florida Keys when visitors were welcomed back to the Keys in June.

If coronavirus doesn’t kill you, someone who disagrees with you will.

1¢

Marathon High School’s cross country team is very successful, qualifying year after year for the state championships in Tallahassee. On the eve of the team’s departure in November, the Keys Weekly featured this shot of Rain Banks shooting down a trail. The photo was contributed.

1¢

The city commission just took ‘cancel culture’ to an entirely new level.

March 19, 2020

COVERED BUT NOT CRACKED

LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

TOO SOON, OR NOT SOON ENOUGH? BUSINESSMAN ORGANIZES PROTEST | P. 13

Reimagine. Revamp. Refresh.

Local, Fully Licensed #CGC026675, #AA26001284, #B26000844, #LA6667217

INSIDE N DECISIO

2020

MONROE COUNTY VOTER’S GUIDE

Brothers Mark, Paul and Donnie Wahlberg are Key West’s newest restaurant owners. Photo courtesy of KATIE PIEPIORA/Wahlburgers

 Member FDIC

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Architecture • Construction • Landscapes • Remodels

KEY WEST WELCOMES WAHLBURGERS | P. 48

Key West’s iconic Southernmost Point monument was closed for months at the start of the pandemic to discourage crowds that gather for photos. It hints at the closures and cancellations that would soon follow. Photo by Mandy Miles.

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Interior Design • Furniture & Decor

Two photos illustrate opposing points of view at a Key West protest, where business owners and workers were desperate to return to work and others claimed it was too soon to let down our guard against the virus. Photos by Larry Blackburn.

Key West Weekly publisher Britt Myers scored an interview with A-lister Mark Wahlberg when his family opened a waterfront Wahlburgers restaurant location in Key West. What editor wouldn’t put these Boston brothers on the cover of the Aug. 6 paper?

19

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

Open 7 Days a Week 5 pm-10 pm Tapas | Cocktails | Live Music 15% Locals Discount Dinner also available at our new waterfront eatery, Chicken Walk www.TavernNTown.com | 305.296.8100 Located at the Key West Marriott Beachside Hotel 3841 N Roosevelt Blvd | Key West

20

2020 IN REVIEW

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

NOT ALL THE NEWS WAS ABOUT COVID

TOP STORIES FROM THE SOUTHERNMOST CITY

W

MANDY MILES

ait, you mean we wrote about something other than the pandemic and its many-tentacled reach into all facets of life? There were other things happening in Key West from late February 2020 until now? Oh, that’s right. We also had a local election, a hotly divided cruise ship debate, online voting for virtual Bubba Awards and an interview with Mark Wahlberg. Fa la la la la, la la la la.

Although the coronavirus captured nearly all headlines and consumed all conversations, there were a few other noteworthy news stories from the Southernmost City in 2020:

mandy@keysweekly.com

No cruise ships have docked at the privately owned Pier B since March.

The facility is now expected to be the subject of lawsuits challenging the city’s prohibition of large cruise ships, which voters approved in November.

MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

VOTERS PASS CRUISE SHIP REDUCTIONS AFTER DEBATE DIVIDES CITY Key West’s cruise ship debate was as divisive and political as the presidential election.

The Key West Committee for Safer Cleaner Ships led a charge to change the city charter to significantly reduce the size and number of ships that can visit Key West. The committee has claimed that smaller ships will benefit both the environment and the culture of Key West. But others in the industry question those claims and have said the smaller ships are older and are therefore the least environmentally friendly.

Business owners and the Key West Chamber of Commerce opposed the limitations

and proposed compromises that were not accepted.

The ballot questions passed handily with a 60% majority.

Now come the lawsuits, as business owners look to hold the city responsible for financial damages they will incur once the cruise industry resumes sailing. It remains to be seen whether the ship restrictions can be enforced at Pier B, the city’s only privately owned cruise ship docking facility. The owners of Pier B are not expected to simply relinquish tens of millions of dollars of income from cruise ships.

The issue has been moot since the last ship departed Key West on March 14 as the pandemic took hold, but will return in the coming months as ships return to the seas.

Brothers Mark, Paul and Donnie Wahlberg opened a Key West Wahlburgers location in August at the Historic Seaport. CONTRIBUTED

KEY WEST WEEKLY GETS INTERVIEW WITH MARK WAHLBERG Key West Weekly publisher Britt Myers scored an interview with Mark Wahlberg in August. The A-list actor, director, diehard Patriots fan and celebrity family man lent his support to the opening of his family’s 46th Wahlburgers restaurant. The Key West location opened in August at the city’s Historic Seaport. During the grand opening celebration in Key West, a young fan of Mark Wahlberg was dining at the restaurant with his parents. When the manager heard what a fan the kid was, he got Mark Wahlberg on the phone and let the kid FaceTime with his Hollywood idol.

(Star power notwithstanding, the food’s “wicked good,” too.)

2020 IN REVIEW

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

The dreaded replacement of Cow Key Bridge between Key West and Stock Island was not an issue, as most of the lane closures that would have snarled traffic occurred while the Keys were closed to visitors and non-essential businesses were closed. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

Like many cherished events, the 2020 Key West Bubbas: People’s Choice Awards adapted to COVID with a virtual format and online voting that garnered 11,000 ballots over six weeks. JAVIER REYES/Keys Weekly

KEYS WEEKLY’S BUBBA AWARDS GO VIRTUAL WITH ONLINE VOTING Keys Weekly had to change up the 2020 Bubbas: Key West People’s Choice Awards due to — what else? — the pandemic. There was no live awards ceremony due to social distancing requirements, and online voting netted more than 11,000 ballots over six weeks.

The revised format asked voters to vote for one of the previous years’ (2014-2019) winners in each category. The “all-inclusive” format and nomination process will return in 2021, but we wanted to remain sensitive this year to struggling friends, neighbors and businesses — and avoid pitting the entire community against one another.

This year’s awards also raised funds for Community Wins, the fundraising initiative created to replace the donations lost to the cancellation of Fantasy Fest and its King and Queen campaign.

Thank you to everyone who has participated in the Bubbas: Key West People’s Choice Awards since 2014. Your generosity, along with that of our sponsors, has raised nearly $100,000 for local nonprofits and organizations.

PANDEMIC MAKES COW KEY BRIDGE REPAIRS PALATABLE The dreaded Cow Key Bridge replacement proved to be a silver lining to the dark days of COVID. Replacement of the twin bridge spans required 180 days of lane closures that were expected to tie up traffic entering and leaving Key West at various times of the day.

The school district was working to reschedule bus routes; Key West hotels were adjusting workers’ schedules to alleviate delays in the morning and afternoon. But with no visitors allowed in the Keys from March to June, school buildings closed and no hotel guests, the work progressed with minimal inconvenience and was finished on time.

While the nation reeled from police violence against people of color, David Sloan researched and wrote a weekly column called ‘Love Me Do’ that details the history of systemic racism in Key West in the first part of the 20th century.

KEYS WEEKLY COLUMNIST DAVID SLOAN EXAMINES HISTORIC RACISM IN KEY WEST In light of the George Floyd murder in Minnesota at the hands of police, and the Black Lives Matter movement nationwide, columnist and researcher David Sloan penned a series of columns about historic and systemic racism that tarnished Key West in the first half of the 20th century.

Sloan’s powerful and deeply researched articles, collectively called “Love Me Do,” dove into the darker days of an island long known for acceptance. The columns explored racist minstrel shows, the punishment of tar and feathering, lynchings and other crimes perpetrated on people of color.

Key West Mayor Teri Johnston enjoys a celebratory glass of champagne at home after being re-elected in the Aug. 18 primary, defeating Mark Rossi and Rick Haskins. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

MAYOR TERI JOHNSTON RE-ELECTED Key West Mayor Teri Johnston drew two challengers in her nonpartisan race for reelection. The August primary pitted Johnston against her fellow former city commissioner Mark Rossi, who owns a collection of bars on Duval Street, and native son Rick Haskins, who retired from a career in the vacation rental business to become a full-time mayor.

Johnston needed more than 50% of the votes to defeat her challengers in the primary and received 59%. Rossi garnered 21% and Haskins took 19%.

21

22

MLKAR

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

T S JU OLD S

GIVING

CONGRATULATIONS TO BUYERS ON THEIR NEW HOME!

6

133 COCO PLUM DR #32

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T S JU OLD S

MORE LISTINGS

BY AMY PUTO JUST SOLD!

6

Thanks to MLKAR’s generous members and affiliates we were once again able to provide over $10,000 of support to the adopted Wesley House families this Christmas. MLKAR wishes everyone in the community a wonderful holiday season and a Happy New Year! CONTRIBUTED

Key/Island Key/Island

Total Active Total2020 Active 2019 2019

2020

Middle Keys Residential Nov 2020 Middle New Keys Residential Nov Sold 2020 Listings Number % %

New Listings Number Sold 2019 2020 % 2019 2020 2019 2020 % 2019 2020 Residential:

% %

Residential: 561 17 269 561 17 269 166 10 65 166 10 65 125 45 46

339 339 112 112 55

Average Sale Price Average Price 2019 Sale 2020 2019

2020

% %

26 26 72 72 19

613,702 613,702 620,869 620,869 708,650

711,618 711,618 795,077 795,077 948,305

15 15 28 28 33

Marathon Marathon Key Colony Key Colony Duck Key

738 738 230 230 128

754 754 243 243 171

2 2 5 5 33

478 478 150 150 86

Duck Key Conch Key Conch Key Long Key

128 10 10 43

171 14 14 43

33 40 40 0

86 8 8 28

125 8 8 31

45 0 0 10

46 2 2 14

55 5 5 24

19 150 150 71

708,650 430,000 430,000 425,921

948,305 592,000 592,000 443,454

33 37 37 4

Long Key TOTALS TOTALS

43 1149 1149

43 1225 1225

0 7

28 750

31 891

10 19

14 396

24 535

71 35

425,921 559,828 559,828

443,454 698,091 698,091

4 25 25

Key/Island Key/Island

Total Active Total2020 Active 2019

7 750 19 396Nov535 Lower Keys891 Residential 202035 Lower New Keys ResidentialNumber Nov Sold 2020 Listings New Listings Number Sold 2019 2020 % 2019 2020 2019 2020 % 2019 2020 Residential:

2019

2020

% %

Big Pine Key Big Key NoPine Name

323 323 4

301 301 5

-6 -6 25

230 230 2

No Name Big Torch Big MiddleTorch Torch

4 7 7 2

5 10 10 1

25 42 42 -50

2 7 7 1

Middle Torch Little Torch Little Torch Ramrod Key

2 96 96 82

1 86 86 67

-50 -10 -10 -18

1 70 70 54

3 1 1 64 64 50

Ramrod Key Summerland Summerland Cudjoe Key

82 107 107 196

67 118 118 193

-18 10 10 -1

54 73 73 134

50 84 84 139

Cudjoe Key Sugarloaf Sugarloaf Big Coppitt

196 126 126 116 116 1059

193 119 119 96

-1 -5 -5 -17 -17 6

134 86 86 75

139 90 90 68

75 732 732

68 739 739

Big Coppitt TOTALS TOTALS SPACER SPACER

1059

96 996 996

6

% %

Average Sale Price Average Price 2019 Sale 2020

% %

2019

2020

181 181 5

29 29 400

497,279 497,279 555,000

502,393 502,393 605,600

0 1 1 48 48 41

5 5 5 0

400 + +-

555,000 0 0 195,000

605,600 1,240,000 1,240,000 0

0 38 38 43

-20-20 4

195,000 601,370 601,370 537,671

0 577,092 577,092 610,610

+-4-4 13

41 34 34 74

43 59 59 99

4 73 73 33

537,671 895,141 895,141 622,024

610,610 940,370 940,370 649,006

13 5 5 4

3 4 4 -9 -9 1

74 67 67 48 48 454

99 63 63 45 45 538

33 -5 -5 -6

622,024 747,263 747,263 435,010 435,010 565,084

649,006 942,758 942,758 417,590 417,590 720,602

4 26 26 -4 -4 28

1

454

538

565,084

720,602

28

Residential: 235 2 140 235 2 140 5 150 1 5 150 1 3 -57 0 -57 0 0 -8 -8 -7 -7 15 15 3

-6 19 19

1 1 9 9 +

6

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2020 IN REVIEW

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020 SARA MATTHIS

sara@keysweekly.com

SHARKS AND MOSQUITOS AND OUR FAVORITE MONKEY PANDEMIC DIDN’T STOP NEWS FROM BREAKING

F

or a sleepy little fishing town, Marathon can sure generate its share of headlines. While there was no local election drama, this Middle Keys city had lots of things happen aside from the pandemic. For example, many locals received their very own shipment of “China seeds” — the story ended up being a harmless marketing scam. Read on for more highlights of Marathon’s news in 2020.

PANDEMIC BRINGS OUT OUR BEST From the very beginning, Middle Keys locals swung into action to help those in need. Making masks to hand out for free. Check. Weekly food drives (hot food and groceries). Check. Free hotel rooms for front line health care personnel shipped in to help cope with the surge in hospital cases. Check. It was also a chance for creative types to finish big projects. Michael Pettit, a graduate of Marathon High School, shared the story of a feature-length comedy he wrote and produced that’s sure to put him (and us) on the map. Local attorney Richard Warner released “Marathon After Midnight” — a gothic comedic film starring a cast of locals — after four or five years of work. And plenty of other residents found ways and time to doll up their residences during quarantine. Dawn Reams finished her outdoor oasis with a painted fence, RC car track and statuary.

The photos circulating on social media of the attack were deemed too gruesome to reprint in a family newspaper. The attack took place at Sombrero Key Light. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

SHARK BITE AT SOMBRERO LIGHT This was the only story of the year from Marathon to grab international headlines. On Sept. 20, Andrew Charles Eddy jumped in the water at Sombrero Lighthouse to do some snorkeling and was immediately bitten by a large shark, believed to be a bull shark. That’s never happened before in this sanctuary preservation area, where even fishing is prohibited. Then, his pregnant wife dived off the boat to save him. Then some photos of Eddy’s injuries leaked on social media, and many locals began to question whether or not the bite was a propellor strike. But, it wasn’t a hoax.

“He looked me in the face. He told me it was the scariest thing that has ever happened to him. I could see the fear in him,” said Capt. Joe Forcine of Marathon Fire Rescue who accompanied him in the ambulance to the trauma flight hangar for treatment on the mainland.

The news was recounted in British newspapers, on television broadcasts and national papers.

So many locals spent quarantine making their homes more beautiful, including Marathon’s Dawn Reams. CONTRIBUTED continued on the next page

23

24

2020 IN REVIEW

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

continued from the previous page

SHARKS AND MOSQUITOS AND OUR FAVORITE MONKEY FARO BLANCO SELLS FOR $40 MILLION After weeks of whispers, EOS Hospitality confirmed the purchase of Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club from the Spottswood Companies in late October. The resort reportedly sold for $40 million. It has 125 rooms and 70 slips. EOS also owns Isla Bella Beach Resort and Spa, also in Marathon, as well as Ocean Edge Resort and Marina in Key West. The portfolio includes high-end hotels and inns in Washington, D.C., Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Kennebunkport, Maine.

When the stay-at-home order was lifted, locals eagerly flocked back to one of Marathon’s favorite watering holes — the Brass Monkey. The entire bar was refurbished in 2020. SARA MATTHIS/Keys Weekly

REBIRTH OF AN ICON Marathon’s Brass Monkey, along with all the other bars in Florida, was shuttered during the quarantine in 2020. When it finally reopened in June, it had been completely refurbished and an important rule was announced: no smoking. Locals eagerly flocked back to the landmark bar, one of Marathon’s favorite watering holes and agreed the new setup was just right.

The Keys are considering how to pay for anticipated costs to raise roads and move utilities due to sea level rise. The cost for Monroe County is estimated at $1.8 billion. SARA MATTHIS/Keys Weekly

STICKER SHOCK: RAISING ROADS FOR SEA LEVEL RISE Monroe County revealed the cost of raising roads and moving utilities to meet the projected sea level rise in 2045: $1.8 billion. Yes, billion with a “b.” In a November meeting, Monroe County’s Board of Commissioners heard a variety of proposals on how to pay for the improvements: adding a penny to the sales tax, issuing a public bond, property assessments and, finally, grants and loans. The Keys’ municipalities, including Marathon, will be watching the county’s lobbying efforts in Tallahassee and Washington, D.C. carefully to see which method has the best traction before deciding on a course of action.

Marathon’s landmark resort Faro Blanco changed ownership in 2020. It has joined EOS Hospitality, which also manages Isla Bella Beach Resort and Spa in Marathon. CONTRIBUTED

GM MOSQUITO TRIAL & ‘THE 1,300’ ARE APPROVED Two long standing, controversial programs were approved in 2020.

On Aug. 18, the Florida Keys Mosquito Control Board voted 4-1 in favor of a genetically modified mosquito trial by Oxitec for the Florida Keys. The controversy dates back to 2016, when voters from Key Haven near Key West — the proposed site of the trial for the company’s first-generation technology — rejected the experiment in their neighborhood. Voters in other areas of the Keys embraced the idea. In 2020, Oxitec received federal and state approvals to go ahead with the trial. In August, the local mosquito board also endorsed it.

The second controversy was also settled over the summer. Known as “the 1,300,” it refers to “extra” building rights for affordable housing granted to the Florida Keys after 2017’s Hurricane Irma by then Gov. Rick Scott. The intent was to replace affordable housing destroyed by the storm, but the move was opposed by some citizens who believed the addition of new housing would extend hurricane evacuation times and lead to unsafe conditions.

The protest went before an administrative judge in Tallahassee who deemed the 1,300 building rights legal but asked the municipalities for clarification on how the units would be evacuated early if a hurricane approached.

Oxitec won approval from the federal, state and local governments to conduct an experimental trial of its genetically modified mosquito. The trial begins in 2021. CONTRIBUTED

25

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

SPECIAL HOLIDAY HOURS: DEC. 31 & JAN. 1

Thursday, Dec. 31 - Sunday, Jan. 3

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Please follow Covid-19 safety guidelines when in one of our stores: • Face coverings are required • Practice physical and social distancing • Our stores have enhanced cleaning procedures • Daily monitoring of employee temperatures *Not valid on APNY, Avalin, Bali, Cabana Life, Charlie B, Ciao Milano, Foxcroft, Gottex Lifestyle, IBKUL, JudyP, Kristin Crenshaw, Oli & Sofia, Oopera, RBX, Robell, San Soleil, Sandra Roberts, Sea Breeze, Spanx, Tango Mango, Topanga and Tribal. Cannot be combined with any other discount.

No adjustments made on previously purchased merchandise. A clearance item is one that has been reduced at least twice and has a price ending of $.97.

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FROM ALL OF US TO ALL OF YOU FOR A HEALTHY, HAPPY AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR! 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

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

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28

2020 IN REVIEW

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

TOP UPPER KEYS NEWS

ETA STRIKES, A WHOLE NEW COUNCIL AND A MASSIVE GREAT WHITE

A

coronavirus pandemic and a dengue outbreak dominated the local headlines for much of the year in the Upper Keys. Aside from that, a tropical storm wreaked havoc on neighborhoods, five new faces entered the Islamorada dais, a coral restoration effort launched and notable construction projects made progress. Here are some of the notable events the Upper Keys witnessed in 2020.

Pascal Weisberger often participated in and conducted coastline cleanups to protect the Keys. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly

MURDER SHAKES COMMUNITY; PASCAL’S WAY INSPIRES SERVICE A fatal stabbing of a young boy rocked the Upper Keys community on May 7. While grieving, local residents rallied to remember 14-year-old Pascal Weisberger through a day of service and with several tributes. The incident took place during the early morning hours at Executive Bay Club in Islamorada, where 17-year-old Daniel Weisberger allegedly stabbed his brother fatally and wounded his father, Ariel Poholek. Following an allout manhunt, Weisberger was captured close to the scene later in the evening after running into a truck on U.S. 1. He’s been charged with second-degree murder and is being held at the Monroe County Detention Facility on Stock Island. To honor Pascal’s legacy, Treasure Village Montessori principal Kelly Mangel initiated the first Pascal Weisberger Day of Service. Community members cleaned shorelines, donated blood, wrote letters to the eldelry and other things that Pascal, a member of the Boy Scout Troop Pack 912, did to make the world a better place.

Another day of service is being planned for February 2021. In addition, the Upper Keys Humane Society named its lobby in honor of Pascal.

The new Islamorada Village Council with Judge Sharon Hamilton. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

ISLAMORADA COUNCIL SEES COMPLETE FLIP Following their election victories, five new Islamorada council members were sworn in on Nov. 19. Council’s complete change came following the departures of Jim Mooney and Mike Forster, who won their elections for state and county offices. Deb Gillis termed out and Chris Sante elected not to run. Decision makers on the dais now are Buddy Pinder, who’s serving as mayor, Mark Gregg, Peter Bacheler, David Webb and Henry Rosenthal. Hiring a new village manager and dealing with fallout from the coronavirus pandemic are among the top matters council members will address in the new year.

TIDAL FLOODING ISSUES PERSIST Saltwater filled roads inside Stillwright Point and Twin Lakes communities in Key Largo in mid-September. It’s an all-toofamiliar occurrence that residents say isn’t getting any better. While multimilliondollar projects look to address inundated streets, Monroe County officials proceeded with a short-term solution that saw the installation of 24-inch water-filled barriers. They appeared to work in Twin Lakes, according to resident accounts, but not in Stillwright Point, where pictures showed cars driving through high waters on North Blackwater Lane.

A Volvo SUV slowly drives through an inundated North Blackwater Lane at Key Largo’s Stillwright Point on Oct. 21. A black van behind it turns around. EMILIE CALDWELL STEWART/Contributed continued on page 38

29

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

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DECEMBER 31 | SUN-SUN | 5:00PM-9:00PM (last seating at 9pm) FIREWORKS AT 9:45PM Prix Fixe menu with choice of soup, salad, entrée and dessert. Priced from $50-$90 per person. Kids’ a la carte menu available. Reservations required.

FIREWORKS VIEWING CELEBRATION WITH LIVE MUSIC BY HAPPY DOG

DECEMBER 31 | SUN-SUN CONCERT PIER 7:00PM-10:00PM, FIREWORKS AT 9:45PM Gates open at 6:30pm. $5 Taco Station Available. General admission, includes a party hat and a welcome drink: $30 per person.

EVENTS MAY BE CANCELED AT ANY TIME.

305.304.3818 | casamarinaresort.com | 1500 Reynolds St. The City of Key West’s curfew requires all guests and residents to be back at their homes or hotel before 10:30pm. Social distancing must be maintained. Masks are required when not seated. Schedules subject to change. Weather permitting. Must be 21 or older to order and consume alcohol. Please consume responsibly.

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30

2020 IN REVIEW

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020 A Publix truck drives on an open Overseas Highway in Islamorada during a picturesque Sunday morning in March. DAVID GROSS/Keys Weekly

F

rom aerial shots of the Overseas Highway and water to up close and personal pictures, here are a few of the best snaps of 2020 from some of our photographers. More on page 34.

SUPER SNAPS

THE BEST PICTURES OF THE YEAR | PART 1

Coral Shores running back Chris Cooper carries a Ransom Everglades defender as he runs the ball on Oct. 30 at Coral Shores High School. The junior finished the season with just over 1,000 yards rushing. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly Remember when coronavirus case reports looked like this? Remember when there were only 12 in the whole state of Florida? Weekly staffer Sara Matthis saved this screen capture for posterity on March 11, 2020 thinking it would be interesting to look back. It is.

National news rarely rears its head in the Keys. But the death of George Floyd on May 25 in Minneapolis, Minnesota so outraged the country that peaceful protests reached as far south as Key Largo, Marathon and Key West. On June 19, a group of citizens convened at Jesse Hobbs Park in Marathon to show solidarity for the Black Lives Matter movement. SARA MATTHIS/Keys Weekly

An aerial view of the Fills during the Fourth of July. The area from MM 77.5 to 79.8 was closed off through July 7 as a COVID-19 protection measure. The Fills subsequently reopened at 50% capacity to limit visitors. DAVID GROSS/Keys Weekly

31

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

HASSLE FREE TRAVEL

Get up-close & personal E Y OSNION BUM IS ADET ONE G

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32

KEYS SCENES

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

My favorite holiday picture with Buddy and Johnny. CHAR HRUSKA/ Keys Weekly A kitten climbing the Xmas tree. BARBARA MORT/Contributed

Merry Christmas from Donna and the pups. DONNA HANSON/Contributed

Florida Keys snow day. BRITT MYERS/ Keys Weekly

Merry Christmas from the Christ of the Abyss. DARYL DUDA/Contributed

Some of the most Key West Christmas decorations we’ve seen yet.

TAMARA ALVAREZ/Contributed 17+ Jeeps for the Key West lighted Jeep parade. Pretty sweet. DAVID WOOD/Contributed

Watching the Packers game (well, one of us is anyways), cozy and safe.

JENNIFER MONTERO/Contributed

Beautiful holiday photos for Mari and Lucía Novo at the Islander Resort in Islamorada. JANNETTE DE LLANOS/Contributed

Friends Daquila, Adori, Lila and Leeanne send out happy holiday wishes from Jesse Hobbs Park, making Christmas cards and tree ornaments with the City of Marathon Parks and Recreation’s Arts and Crafts Outreach program. ALI ADAMS/Contributed

This Heinke Perler helmet and pump display from a 1905 expo sure gets us into the holiday spirit. HISTORY OF DIVING MUSEUM/Contributed

TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

O

ur theme for JANUARY is FRESH STARTS. January always brings new year’s resolutions, fresh hopes, lots of workout gear purchased with the best intentions, and clearing of bad juju and holiday ham. Send us your favorite interpretation of a fresh start, whether that’s a new haircut, a snapshot of you at the gym, or a picture of you from the first day of work.

We’re kicking 2020 way outta here and celebrating all the good things that 2021 has to offer us.

HOLIDAYS AT HOME 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.

• 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.

33

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

THU DEC 31 Webb & Davidson 12-4 NYE with the Carousers 8-12 Michael Trixx @ Sunset FRI JAN 1 Mark Hill 11-3 Taylor King Band 5-9 Michael Trixx @ Sunset SAT JAN 2 Micah Gardner 11-3 Chris Dean Band 5-9 SUN JAN 3 Dennis Holmes 11-3 Webb & Davidson 5-9 MON JAN 4 The Carousers 5-9 Michael Trixx @ Sunset TUE JAN 5 Micah Gardner 5-9 WED JAN 6 Webb & Davidson 5-9 Michael Trixx @ Sunset

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34

2020 IN REVIEW

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

Nearly 1,000 Key West residents gathered June 1 for a peaceful protest with an urgent message in the wake of the George Floyd shooting by Minneapolis police. MARK HEDDEN/Contributed

Robert Miller, a 2020 graduate of Somerset Island Prep, waves after receiving his diploma during the school’s socially distanced graduation that garnered national publicity. MARK HEDDEN/Contributed

SUPER SNAPS

THE BEST PICTURES OF THE YEAR | PART 2

Richard McChesney and Jed Dodds of The Studios of Key West enjoy one of Key West’s newest ‘highlights’ at Hugh’s View rooftop venue that opened in August 2020. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

Coronavirus stopped many of the nonprofit parties that typically support good works in the Keys. But supporters of the Florida Keys SPCA still managed a car wash in July to raise funds for the Marathon animal shelter with help from brothers Gabriel and Hayes Del Cueto. SARA MATTHIS/Keys Weekly

Key West’s legendary musician Coffee Butler looks at the sign during the September dedication of the Key West amphitheater that bears his name. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

Marathon High School’s Anthony Ross gets some serious air in a game against Palm Glades Prep in January. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

Drones were made for images like this. After improvements were made at the corner of U.S.1 and Aviation Boulevard in Marathon, the best way to convey the new configuration was with an aerial shot. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

35

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

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IN THEIR OWN WORDS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

HAPPY NEW YEAR PREDICTIONS!

Letting hindsight truly be 2020...

T

he passage into the New Year officially marks the end of “Holiday Season” and the beginning of “NFL Playoff Season.” At least football fans have had the solace of televised games to help them forget the ongoing “Pandemic Season.” With 2020 (finally!) becoming hindsight, here are the Keys Disease Central predictions for 2021!

• If the Miami Dolphins win their last regular season game, and then win every playoff game, they have a great shot at winning the Super Bowl. (If they don’t, then somebody else will. And I am 100% confident in this prediction.) Regardless, that Ryan Fitzpatrick fourth quarter in Las Vegas is one of the greatest come-frombehind wins in NFL history — and the FitzMagic no-look pass as his head was being wrenched off by a Raider defender could easily be the play of the year.

• Facebook-certified amateur epidemiologists will continue to “debate” the effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccines, emboldened by controversial statements from pundits and politicians who lined up to be among the first to get the vaccine. Yes, I know — the hypocrisy is overwhelming. In a related story, early recipients will observe that the microchips embedded in the vaccine really help with the reception of the new 5G wireless data protocol. (Sadly, people will actually believe this.)

• America’s Funniest Videos will air a new segment featuring the amusing antics of those who insist that their constitutional rights are being violated by mask-wearing ordinances and policies. In a related development, the name Karen will significantly decline in popularity.

• Internet conspiracy theorists will continue to post stuff that is just so unbelievable, yet people will blindly repost as if the “information” came directly from Heaven, written on stone tablets.

• Someone will start a grand Internet hoax that Paul McCartney is dead.

• Taylor Swift will continue releasing new albums every month. Following “Folklore” and “Evermore,” new titles will include “Wherefore,” “Heretofore,” “Nevermore,” “Furthermore,” “Forevermore,” “Underscore,” “Sycamore,” “Seashore,” “Eyesore” and “Hardcore” — until exhausted fans simply say, “No more.”

• The New York Post will turn on President Trump. (Oops! That already happened.)

• Speaking of the Post, it recently published an article featuring (alleged) 2021 predictions from the legendary soothsayer, Nostradamus. One of them seemed to foretell a zombie apocalypse: “Few young people: half-dead to give a start.”

But things get better: “After great trouble for humanity, a greater one is prepared. The Great Mover renews the ages: Rain, blood, milk, famine, steel, and plague; Is the heavens fire seen, a long spark JOHN running.” Yep — a BARTUS post-COVID asteroid. is a City of MaraBut wait: there’s more! thon council“Fathers and mothman. He also is ers dead of infinite a musician who sorrows / Women in performs around mourning, the pestitown. For more lent she-monster: The see johnbartus.

Great One to be no com more, all the world to end.” If this is the case, perhaps the Mayans just got a couple of digits confused back in 2012. Back to the more mundane…

• The Washington Football Team will finally choose a new team name.

• The team formerly known as the Cleveland Indians will choose a new name.

• The Kansas City Chiefs, the Atlanta Braves, the Chicago Blackhawks, the Florida State Seminoles, and the Utah Utes could not be reached for comment.

• In a related development, Florida reptile lovers and haters will join forces to petition the state legislature to have the team names of the Florida Gators and Florida A&M Rattlers changed to less offensive animal mascots. Iguanas, anyone?

• The NBA’s New Orleans Pelicans should change their name … but won’t.

• In potential good news, all joking aside, the hopefully widespread availability of vaccines to combat COVID-19 will allow us all to return to a more normal life.

Whatever does happen, I hope we’ll all be around to witness as things get better on the pandemic front. Normal life — the things we all took for granted — would be so nice right about now … or just a bit later in 2021. Please stay safe until we can make that happen, and have a blessed and prosperous New Year!

Join me for New Year’s Eve tonight at the Key Colony Inn, Friday day at the Islander Resort in Islamorada, Friday night at my Social Distancing Concert on Facebook Live, and Saturday night at the Key Colony Inn. Catch John Wednesdays at Herbie’s, Thursdays at Sparky’s Landing, Fridays on Facebook Live for the Social Distancing Concerts, and Saturday night at the Key Colony Inn. Music available wherever you get your streaming. www.facebook.com/john.bartus

VEGETARIAN DIETS

What are the benefits?

Can carnivores do it?

M

y beautiful and healthy wife, Mindy, has been a vegetarian, specifically a lacto-ovo vegetarian, for over 18 years.

She does eat milk-based cheeses and the occasional omelet, and this is how she falls into the lacto-ovo DR. JOHN category. As with everything WOLTZ these days, there are variations of vegetarian diet, from … is a preventative health physipescatarians (fish eaters), to cian with Baptist true vegans, who exclude all Health Primary animal-based foods. (I have Care in Marathon. no idea where shrimp, crab and lobster eaters fit in, but they are tasty bugs.)

Why would anyone not want bacon? There are many health benefits to a reduced meat diet.

These benefits include weight loss and management, decreased rates of cancer, and decreased risk of the big three diseases - diabetes, heart disease and elevated cholesterol.

Of course, eating only French fries and white bread could qualify as a vegan diet, but obviously would not be any healthier than eating fast food every day, so some effort must be taken to learn how to eat healthy and what to eat. I recommend starting at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Visit www.eatright.com and search for the story named “Vegging out tips.”

Another great source of information, especially if you have or are at risk for the diseases already discussed, is to talk with your health care provider about a referral to a registered dietician.

But, let’s be honest, meatless Mondays just aren’t for everyone. But can you eat healthy, be more plant-based and still have the occasional steak? Yes you can, and since it is a smaller portion than the 72-ounce challenge at the Big Texan, you can get a much higher quality cut.

General rule of thumb is 6 ounces a day. So, rather than spending $5 a pound on ground beef, get an organic, free range chicken breast, or a tenderloin (which are sometimes wrapped in a slice of bacon and that is OK).

Embrace the challenge: learn how to make a great, spicy vegetarian chili (secret is sweet potatoes and fresh hot peppers). Start out by reducing one meal a week to meatless, add in some black beans for protein and you can get there.

Search for your favorite foods and add “vegetarian.” You might be surprised how satisfied you can be with a homemade arrabiata sauce on whole wheat or veggie pasta.

Have a great week, and be healthier today than you were yesterday!

Have a health question or topic idea for the doc? Email sara@keysweekly.com.

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2020 IN REVIEW

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

continued from page 28

TOP UPPER KEYS NEWS

Unama’ki, a 15-foot, 2,076-pound adult female great white shark, is the latest “snowbird” visiting the Florida Keys. CONTRIBUTED

MASSIVE GREAT WHITE PINGED OFF KEY LARGO The 15-foot, 2,076-pound adult female great white shark, Unama’ki, visited the Key Largo waters on Nov. 5. In early August, she was north in Nova Scotia where scientists from the nonprofit shark

research group Ocearch tracked her.

Unama’ki, whose name means “Land of the fog” in the language of the indigenous peoples of Nova Scotia, is one of the largest sharks Ocearch has tagged in the North Atlantic Ocean, beaten only by a 16foot female tagged in 2012.

Kylie Smith and Mike Goldberg started I.CARE together. Partnered with Mote Marine Laboratory, they’re bringing science-based reef restoration to Islamorada for the first time ever. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly

An aerial view of the College of the Florida Keys’ campus in Key Largo. DAVID GROSS/Keys Weekly

CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS PROGRESS The College of the Florida Keys broke ground in late August on its $20-million campus at MM 106 in Key Largo, as programs like nursing and marine environmental technology and apprenticeship opportunities will expand in the Upper Keys. The facility is expected to be ready for students in August 2021. In Islamorada, a topping ceremony on Oct. 23 celebrated the completion of the Plantation Key Courthouse and Detention Center’s roof. The project’s 48,420 square feet was anticipated to take about 30 months to complete. Project managers say it is ahead of schedule, however, and will likely be complete by summer 2021. Costs are around $30 million.

PARTNERS BRING SCIENCE AND CITIZENS TO SAVE THE REEF Coral restoration took center stage during World Oceans Day on June 7 in Islamorada, as Key Dives owner Michael Goldberg and Kylie Smith announced the formation of Islamorada Conservation and Restoration Education, or I.CARE. Taking a community-based approach to coral restoration, the organization is partnering with local dive shops and Mote Marine Laboratory to “transform visitors into volunteer divers with a hands-on experience in restoration,” Goldberg said. Divers will take part in coral restoration and monitoring to bring the reef back with their own hands. The land-based nursery at Bud N’ Mary’s Marina will provide the corals.

ENVIRONMENT

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

FINDING AN ECO-FRIENDLY SPARKLE ERIN STOVER SICKMEN www.keysweekly.com

A

s if 2020 hasn’t handed us enough heavy blows, along comes a pill that will be especially hard for Key Westers to swallow. Friends, this won’t be easy, but we have to talk about ‌ glitter. Sadly, the world is realizing that our sparkletastic standby is classified as a microplastic.

Microplastics are exactly what they sound like — minuscule bits of plastic that find their way into the soil and water, wreaking particular havoc on oceans and aquatic life. This form of pollutant is divided into two categories: plastic products such as bottles that eventually break down to sand-sized particles, and microplastics that are initially produced as tiny units of waste. The latter has typically been defined as microbeads, those teeny little globs found in scrubs and soaps. In 2018, microbeads in cosmetics were banned in the U.S. and Canada, drastically diminishing this particular subset of waste. Other countries followed suit, giving credence to the concept that these little specks were inarguably detrimental to the environment.

What wasn’t initially considered was the microbead’s fabulous, flashy and flamboyant cousin, glitter. As much as we wish it didn’t, logic follows that if microbeads and microplastics in general have a profound negative effect on the oceans, so does glitter.

So, what exactly is wrong with our shiny little buddy who helps us make Fantasy Fest costumes, holiday decorations and parade signs? Sadly, he’s a bit of a toxic friend.

Glitter is made from a combination of aluminum and polyethylene terephthalate, or PET plastic. The compounds in PET take anywhere from 450 to 1,000 years to break down. As an object specifically designed to be spread and scattered, pieces of glitter are essentially just attractive morsels of pollution, custom-made for distribution into the world at large. Studies have found glitter in core ice samples from the Arctic and in the gastrointestinal systems of creatures ranging from fish to humans. More than 13 million tons of microplastic is embedded in the sea floor. The Geological Society of America has even named Plastiglomerate, the material that results when plastic permanently fuses with natural materials, as an officially recognized element.

While glitter is admittedly just one of many environmental threats, it stands out as a fairly easy one to reevaluate. A couple years ago, Lush Cosmetics led the improvement movement by replacing plastic glitter in its products with shimmers and sparkles created from mica, starch and other mineral bases.

More recently, several major retailers in the UK announced that they would forgo glitter this holiday season as an element in wrapping paper and decorative items. Many of those companies have also announced that the move would extend beyond the new year, becoming corporate policy and setting a strong precedent for other retailers to follow.

But, but, it’s just so ‌ pretty! Yes, glitter is undeniably magical. Fortunately, the glitterenamored community is busy developing alternatives to ensure we don’t lose our trademark sparkle.

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SOME OPTIONS FOR ECO-FRIENDLY GLITTER Today Glitter EcoStardust Eco Glitter Fun

Leave it to South Florida to lead the charge. Today Glitter is a Miami-based company that has engineered what it calls “bioglitter.� The shimmery biodegradable material is created by replacing PET with eucalyptus cellulose, resulting in a lustery rainbow array of colors. EcoStardust, whose hashtag is #glitterwithoutthelitter, produces a similar plant-based product sold as loose glitter, or incorporated into bath and cosmetic products.

Eco Glitter Fun utilizes bio-glitter and partners with brands and retailers worldwide to help push the eco-friendly option to a broader audience. If you’re watching your spending in the new year, there are also some DIY solutions, including a clever, and Instagram-popular, lifehack that involves using a shaped hole punch to create little confetti pieces from leaves and other natural materials.

So, by all means, keep the sparkle and shine on, my bright little parade-happy friends! But please consider the impact and check out the alternatives.

 Â? Â? Â

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Chapman & Cardwell Capital Management is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services, Inc.

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GIVING

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020 SARA MATTHIS

sara@keysweekly.com

After nearly 45 years of practice, the Law Offices of Wolfe/Stevens congratulate John on his retirement and future endeavors!

DINNER & SOCKS KOTS CLIENTS TREATED TO CLEAN ACCESSORIES

Patrick and Lisa will continue to serve existing and new clients with the same trusted professional standards on which the firm was founded.

Being a lawyer is not merely a vocation. It is a public trust, and each of us has an obligation to give back to our communities.

-John Wolfe 6807 O/S HWY, MARATHON, FL 33050 • (305) 743-9858

ALL YOU CAN EAT MAHI MAHI FISH FRY EVERY FRIDAY 5PM - 9PM

COME CELEBRATE SUNSET WITH LIVE CANNON SALUTE AND COMPLIMENTARY SHOTS!

Now serving breakfast $7.00 Tues - Sun • 8:30am - 11am

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Lottie Bowechop, shelter manager, helps distribute the gift of socks and a special holiday meal on Christmas Eve at KOTS. CONTRIBUTED

S

t. Martha’s Ministry (formerly St. Mary’s Soup Kitchen) went above and beyond at Christmas this year in Key West. It served a special holiday dinner and gave socks to KOTS’ 121 clients. KOTS, Keys Overnight Temporary Shelter, is the only temporary homeless shelter in the Keys.

“We provided 18 cooked turkeys, mashed potatoes, mixed vegetables, gravy, cranberry sauce, rolls and assorted pies to be served,” said Mary D. Leen, director of St. Martha’s Ministry. “We could not have done it without the help of about seven volunteers in preparing the meal.”

Since 1977, the charity has provided an evening meal to the shelter clients, 365 days a year.

In 2019 and again in 2020, St. Martha’s Ministry also appealed to the makers of Bombas Socks for a donation to the clients in the Key West shelter. Bombas donates one item to those experiencing homeless for every item purchased.

“They so graciously provided us with 2,000 pairs of socks,” Leen said, adding that they will be distributed weekly at the shelter. This is the second year the ministry has secured the sock donation for Key West’s homeless.

The turkeys for the Christmas Eve dinner were donated by Margaritaville Resort, also a standing donation at Christmas and Thanksgiving.

ABOUT BOMBAS SOCKS The company’s mission is to help those experiencing homelessness. For every item purchased from the company, it donates an item on the client’s behalf. Since its inception it has donated more than 40 million items to more than 2,500 community organizations in the U.S., including KOTS in Key West.

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

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COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

OBITUARIES

BIRTH

HURLEY GOODMAN

JOHN DANIEL GONZALES

J

Hurley and big sister River Marie.

E

rika Marie and RD Goodman of Marathon have named their second child Hurley Dale Goodman.

Hurley was born at 3:43 a.m. Oct. 14, 2020, at Lower Keys Medical Center, Key West, weighing 9 pounds 5 ounces and measuring 21 inches.

Hurley’s mom works for the Greater Marathon Chamber of Commerce. His dad is a charter captain with Huntress Sportfishing.

Hurley and his sister, River Marie Goodman, 2½, are thirdgeneration Conchs. Maternal grandparents are Andrew and Gigi Proulx of West Palm Beach, Florida, and the late Sebrina Proulx. Paternal grandparents are Randy and Kimberly Goodman of Loxahatchee, Florida.

ohn Daniel Gonzales passed away peacefully in his sleep on Dec. 11, 2020 at the age of 50. A Florida native, “Danny” grew up in West Palm Beach, with a love of fishing and music, spending much of his time on the water.

He met the love of his life, Jodi, while working together as teenagers and they spent 30 beautiful years together.

He fulfilled a lifelong dream of living in Colorado, loving the cold weather, enjoying hiking, camping and exploring the mountains and national parks on ATVs, except that

one roll down the mountain, and found a new passion for hunting and long rides on his motorcycle.

An ABCI electrical apprenticeship graduate, John was proud to be a journeyman electrician for more than 20 years. He loved to explain the whys and hows of any electrical system, even working as a teacher for the apprenticeship program. He loved to share his enthusiasm for the trade with young people. He prided himself on his knowledge of the latest code and ensuring the safety of all his work. He worked on large commercial projects in New York, the Olympic Training Center in Colorado, sugar refineries, the distribution line for the FKAA and most recently at the Blue Grass Army Depot. He was so proud to have been an integral part of the FKAA, working around the clock after Hurricane Irma to restore water to the Florida Keys.

John is survived by his

GERARD P. ROUSSIN SR.

G

erard P. Roussin Sr. passed away on Nov. 24, 2020 after a brief illness. He was preceded in death by his wife Catherine and son Randy Roussin.

Gerard is survived by children Michael Roussin and wife Arlene, Donna Powell and husband Jerry, Patti Coyle and husband Eddie, Spook Roussin and wife Sandy; eight grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

Gerard was born in Valcourt, Quebec, Canada on July 7, 1927 to Albert and Marie Roussin as one of 14 children. His family purchased a dairy farm and moved to Milton, Vermont when he was an Infant. Gerard grew up working hard on the family farm. He would tell stories later in his life of how they used mule teams to clear land and on New Year’s Eve the family would gather, including the children no matter what age, to cheer in the new year with a glass of homemade wine.

Gerard entered the Army at the age of 20 but his mother petitioned the Red Cross for him to be released to help with the family farm since his father had passed away at the age of 44 unexpectedly and his other brothers were already being deployed by the military. He reentered the Army after a year and was immediately sent to Europe to be part of the ski patrol in the mountains of Austria. He had countless stories of his time and adventures there. His favorite

loving mom Wanda Alexander and sister Jodi Nentwick.

Please send cards and in lieu of flowers, consider a donation to a newly created scholarship fund for Sara and Adam, to St. Columba Episcopal Church, 451 W 52nd St., Marathon, FL 33050. John was a long-time member and loved to share his electrical talents with the church, from wiring the temporary trailer park to lighting parish hall.

As much as he loved his work and his many hobbies, his true loves were his children, Sara and Adam. Over the years serving as a Boy Scout leader, the tears of a girls softball coach and even wearing a dress on the field to encourage a win from the soccer team he coached, they are his proudest achievement and we know he will be looking down with love always.

A celebration of life will be held in the early summer along the Peace River in a trip he was planning with the boys.

was of an Austrian family that took him in when he became severely ill and nurtured him back to health to return to his unit.

He married Catherine Bombard from Burlington, Vermont and they had five children together. Gerard and Catherine moved to Marathon, Florida in 1984 where he started working in construction for Pinewood Construction in Big Pine Key. Gerard loved to be outdoors, whether it be hunting in Vermont or fishing the waters of the Florida Keys. They regularly attended Saturday night mass at San Pablo Catholic Church.

Gerard always enjoyed having a good time with family and friends at any type of party or get-together and was called “Grampa” by all who knew him.

One of his favorite things to do was to go to the Brass Monkey, have a couple of cold ones and listen to live music from the band.

Whenever the Marathon Athletic Department or Marathon Youth Club needed to raise funds, Gerard would go from one end of town to the other either selling tickets, or plaques to raise funds. He was also an active cook in the concession stand for many athletic events.

A service will be held at San Pablo at a later date.

In lieu of flowers a donation in Gerard’s name may be made to the Mid Keys Booster Club to support Marathon Athletics. Please mail to P.O. Box 501740, Marathon, FL 33050.

COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

CHARLES L. MOORE

C

harles L (Chuck) Moore passed away peacefully on Nov. 15, 2020 after a courageous battle with glioblastoma and complications from Agent Orange exposure.

He was born in Oak Park, Illinois on July 8, 1947, to Fred and Marge Moore.

Chuck leaves behind his wife and best friend, Jacqueline (Jackie); daughter Leah (Ted) Temperle; son Adam Moore; granddaughters Brittanie Boyd and Valerie Mitchell; and six great-grandchildren, Xander, Skylar, Elliott, Bentley, Owen and Sebastian. Chuck also leaves behind his brother David Moore (Carol) and sister Barbara Brociek, as well as many nieces and nephews and loving in-laws.

Chuck proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He was a member of the American Legion Post 154 in Marathon, Florida, a Life Member of Harry Anderson VFW Post 9545 in New Lenox, Illinois, a life member of the DAV and VVA.Chuck was a Master Mason belonging to Matteson Lodge #0175 in Joliet, Illinois. He belonged to the Scottish Rite and was raised to the 33rd degree to become a Shriner and member of Medinah Temple, Chicago. He was a member of the Medinah Mariners and served as their commodore. Chuck was a past member of the Joliet Shrine Club and most recently the Marathon Shrine Club.

Chuck was known as “Mr. Walleye.”

He was an avid fresh- and saltwater fisherman and fished professionally on the Master Walleye circuit. He was a hunter and raised field trial champion Brittany spaniels. Chuck enjoyed his Saturday and Sunday golf games with the guys from the American Legion and the Wednesday night poker games with his friends. A Masonic service followed by a military service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 16, 2021 at 1:30 p.m. followed by a celebration of life and an Irish wake at the American Legion Post 154, 4115 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida.

Memorial donations may be made to Shriners Hospitals and Burn Centers for Children.

DOUGLAS E. HARRISON

D

ouglas E. Harrison of Little Torch Key, Florida died on Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2020, at age 78, due to complications from an accidental head injury sustained in October. He and his wife Susan built a home on Little Torch, where Doug lived out his life fishing, diving and rebuilding antique cars. He was active in Monroe County politics and gave of his time, talents and resources to local nonprofits.

Doug will be missed by many.

Doug was born on Jan. 18, 1942 in Baltimore, Maryland. He grew up in Ellicott City and graduated from Catonsville High School in 1960. He earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering from the University of Maryland and a master’s degree in paleontology from the University of Minnesota.

Doug joined the U.S. Navy in 1961.

Within two years, he was accepted into flight school, and he received his wings on Dec. 17, 1964. He flew 114 combat missions in Vietnam and was awarded the Air Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign, and National Defense. His last active duty mission was Attack Squadron 125. He was discharged on June 26, 1968.

In 1968, Doug started his 35-year career as a pilot for Northwest Airlines. He worked his way up from second officer to captain, flying Boeing 707, 727, 757, 747, the Airbus and the DC-10. He flew both domestically and to Europe and Asia. In addition to pilot, Doug served as a check airman and flight instructor. Some of his fondest memories were flying to Guantanamo Bay Naval Base, Cuba and meeting Fidel Castro, and instructing pilots when Northwest Airlines sent planes to Kenya, where he met Jomo Kenyatta.

On St. Patrick’s Day in 1981, Doug met a flight attendant named Susan in Orlando.

Doug and Susan married on Oct. 15, 1982 at Pilgrim Heights in Montour, Iowa. They made a life together in the Florida Keys, and after his retirement as a 747-400 captain in 2002, the two began traveling the U.S. in an RV with their dogs.

Doug served two terms as president of Jolly Roger Estates Homeowners Association and was instrumental in erecting the flag pole that stands at the entrance today. He was a member of the Southernmost Republican Club and worked on many successful campaigns. Serving as campaign manager for Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay was a proud moment for Doug.

Doug also served several terms as a board member for The Monroe Association for ReMARCable Citizens and was a past member of the Military Affairs Committee.

Doug is survived by his wife, Susan Dirks Harrison, and his puppies, Flash III and Elie II; his beloved in-laws, Harlan and Darlene Dirks; Nathan and Valerie (Dirks) Behounek, Carie Behounek, Juliet Sherman, Jacob and Amy Behounek, Aaron and Sarah (Behounek) Kassen; Sandra Dirks; David and Ardella Dirks, Ryan and Shelby (Dirks) Speicher, Todd Dirks and Hayley Proenza, Kyle Dirks and Ryan Gruber, Ryan Dirks, Natasha Ribby and Jake Dirks.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents, Carl Lee Harrison and Rita Marie (Russo) Harrison; brothers, Donald Harrison and Lee Harrison; and sister, Libby (Harrison) Stone.

Donations may be made in Doug’s name to one of three area nonprofits: Monroe County Stars of Hope c/o Major Tim Age 5501 College Road Key West, FL 33040 Cooking With Love c/o Reverend Steve Torrence 1215 Petronia St. Key West, FL 33040 Florida Keys SPCA Marathon Campus c/o Tara McFarland 10550 Aviation Blvd.

Marathon, FL 33050

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2020 IN REVIEW

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

IN MEMORIAM Every death is tragic in its way and sad for someone. But here are some passings that were particularly painful in a particularly painful year.

PASCAL WEISBERGER 2006-2020 Pascal Weisberger, of Islamorada, passed away on May 7, 2020 at the age of 14.

A student at Treasure Village Montessori, Pascal excelled in his characteristically modest, soft-spoken way. In a year, he overcame a fear of putting his face in the water, and became “a little fish,” said Arie Poholek, Pascal’s dad. Weisberger took up running and proudly represented his school in the Special Olympics. He rose through the ranks in both the Boy Scouts and tae kwon do, putting in dedicated time and effort in both beloved activities. When he passed, Weisberger was on the cusp of earning his Eagle Scout rank and his black belt.

“Pascal always amazed me so much. I was proud of him all the time,” said Poholek.

JOHN ELY 1940-2020 John S. Ely of North Brunswick, New Jersey and Marathon, Florida passed away on July 17, 2020 at the age of 79. John is survived by his loving wife, Maria Arvelo Ely, of Marathon.

John started out owning a cabinet shop and then began to design and build homes in the New Jersey area as well as purchase real estate for investments.

In the late ’80s, on a vacation, he instantly fell in love with the pristine aqua water and low-key Keys lifestyle. Within a month, he purchased a home for his family and then began to purchase additional real estate in the Marathon and Key Colony Beach areas to build homes. In the late ’90s, he decided to try his hand as a restaurateur, which was a completely new venture for him. He started the Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House in Marathon, which continues to operate.

LARRY KAHN 1963-2020 Larry Kahn, former editor of the Keynoter, passed away on July 18, 2020.

Kahn was born on Sept. 26, 1963 in Smithtown, New York to Charlotte and Arnold Kahn who have predeceased him.

He moved to Marathon in the early ’90s and worked his way up the ranks at the Keynoter to become editor. He left the paper in 2018 to become the public information officer for State Attorney Dennis Ward.

“His family was down there; he had so many friends,” said his sister, Deborah.

Aug. 23

PAUL WORTHINGTON 1948-2020 Paul Worthington looked the way a hard-living and accomplished sailor should, and he had the requisite seafaring cred to back up any stories told around a bar. And there were plenty of those.

Worthington, who held the title of Minister of Piracy in the Conch Republic Navy, died Aug. 23, taking many people by surprise. He was 72.

Known in Key West as co-owner of the legendary Schooner Wharf Bar with his wife, Evalena, Worthington had already lived a full life on the water in

his native New England before arriving in the Florida Keys in the mid-’80s. He and Evalena started Schooner Wharf Bar aboard an old schooner docked in Key West Harbor before expanding and moving into its familiar space at the foot of William Street.

“Paul was the love of my life, my guiding light, my greatest supporter, collaborator, cheerleader and my best friend,” his wife Evalena said upon his passing. “He and his spirit will be with me forever. There was nothing too crazy for us to pursue, and the two of us did it all together, from beginning to end.”

2020 IN REVIEW

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

JERRY GREENBERG 1927-2020 Jerry Greenberg passed away in Key Largo on Sept. 1, 2020 at the age of 93. The dive legend from Key Largo changed the game in underwater photography and diving, with the first underwater color photograph cover for National Geographic in 1962. Right to the end, he was still taking pictures and mentoring a select few on the value of hard work, integrity, love of country and protecting our reefs.

Together with his wife, Idaz, they created marine life publications that were scientifically correct, vibrantly beautiful, and were affordable for anyone to buy. He invented the underwater “kiss of flash” and shared his groundbreaking methods in his 1956 book “Underwater Photography Simplified.” When his equipment couldn’t do what he needed, he innovated the parts needed. He captured entire scenes that no one else could. How did he do this? Sometimes Jerry would first devise the story, then previsualize the images it would contain — sketching underwater scenes, complete with cropping and point of view.

CHARLES “SONNY” MCCOY 1928-2020 Charles “Sonny” McCoy was born on Jan. 16, 1928, on Bahama Street in Key West, Florida. He died Sept. 10, 2020.

McCoy and his soulmate, Merili Hilton McCoy, were married for 50 years and together raised six children.

McCoy was an U.S. Army-Air Force veteran, flying multiple types of aircraft to numerous destinations around the world. He was a graduate of the University of Florida and traveled from Key West to Gainesville on an Indian motorcycle with a dresser strapped to the back.

He was mayor of Key West from 1971-1981, the first mayor to serve five terms. He saved the town from being taken over by the State of Florida and brought Key West’s economy out of the red and into the black. He later became a commissioner and mayor of Monroe County from 2000-2008 — at Merili’s insistence.

He water-skied to Cuba on Sept.

10, 1978, when he was 50 years old, on one ski in six hours, 10 minutes nonstop. National Geographic printed the story and he was recognized in Ripley’s Believe It Or Not museum. The story went worldwide after it was picked up by the Associated Press.

CHERYL CATES 1953-2020 On Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2020, Cheryl Cates, loving wife, mother and grandmother, passed away at Jackson Memorial Hospital.

Cheryl was born on Sept. 19, 1953 in Jacksonville, Florida. She moved to Key West at the age of 2. On Sept. 11, 1971, she married the love of her life, Craig Cates. They raised three daughters, Tammy, Nicole and Crystal. They also shared four beautiful grandchildren, Taylor, Riley, Trevor and Andrew. Cheryl owned several businesses in Key West during her lifetime with her husband, Craig, including Cates Automotive and NAPA Auto Parts. Cheryl was also a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway Knight Gardner Realty.

Her pride for her family and adoration for her husband were evident to

KEN DAVIS 1956-2020 Ken Davis, father, husband, brother, friend and son, passed away peacefully Sept. 12, 2020 at Baptist Hospital in Miami. He was 64.

His career began in Islamorada 40 years ago. In 1980, he joined the U.S. Coast Guard as a member of Coast Guard Intelligence. For six years, he worked as a special agent conducting criminal investigations while tracking deserters.

In 1986, he was recruited by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), beginning his distinguished 22year career where he earned numerous exceptional performance and service awards from the DEA and other law enforcement agencies.

In 2008, Ken retired from his esteemed career with DEA. Soon after, he was on a plane to Baghdad to work as a private contractor.

He was elected as a member of the village council and vice mayor of Islamorada, a position he has held since 2018. During that time, he strived to always do what he thought was best in order to preserve the village and what made it so special to him and so many others.

everyone who knew her. She loved live music and was an avid supporter of the local musicians in Key West and was often found singing around town herself. Cheryl was a fierce champion and advocate for those in need on her beloved island. She was involved in many organizations and spearheaded numerous fundraisers for people and causes.

She served on the boards for the Wesley House, Samuel’s House and Kids Come First. She cherished her nine years as The First Lady of Key West and used all her influence and connections to make her island home a better place.

Cheryl also shared a passion for the water and boating with her husband Craig. They enjoyed long weekends at Boca Grande together and exploring the Bahamian islands on their boat, Craig’s Girls. She left her mark on many small towns all around the Bahamas.

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

CONGRATULATIONS To our BUYERS & SELLERS. We hope you enjoy your new homes.

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

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2020 IN REVIEW

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020 FKMCD aerial crews flew numerous missions via helicopter over Key Largo as needed to apply both larvicide and adulticide products.

FLORIDA KEYS MOSQUITO CONTROL DISTRICT/Contributed

MORE THAN 50 INFECTED

LOOKING A BACK ON A DENGUE OUTBREAK

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

coronavirus pandemic wasn’t the only health threat in the Upper Keys in 2020.

More than 50 residents became infected with dengue. Intense mosquito control activities were witnessed for several months from MM 106 Key Largo to Harry Harris Park in Tavernier.

An outbreak began in mid June-when the Florida Health Department confirmed a positive case of dengue that was locally acquired in Key Largo. Cases grew from there as health and mosquito control officials implemented a response plan that included inspectors going door-to-door to treat properties to prevent breeding.

In addition, truck and aerial adulticide and larvicide treatments were conducted throughout the areas of concern to reduce the mosquito population, and hand foggers were used in certain areas.

Mosquito traps were placed in the area to monitor the Aedes aegypti population. Collected mosquitoes were tested for mosquito-borne diseases.

By late June, 10 dengue cases were reported to the health department as mitigation efforts continued. But the numbers continued to climb, with more than 40 infected by August. In total, 56 people were known to have come down with dengue.

Dengue fever is not contagious; it is transmitted by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito. The Keys Weekly spoke with Upper Keys resident Tom Bartlett on his experience with dengue. Bartlett lives just north of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, between MM

Dengue fever is not contagious, but it is transmitted by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito — one of the most common container-breeding mosquitoes in the Keys. CONTRIBUTED

102.5 and 103, with his wife, Sarah, and newborn.

Bartlett said it was mid-June when people he knew started to get sick. Bartlett said the number of people he’d normally see out walking quickly subsided as they were inside, feeling unwell.

“No one knew it was dengue at that point in time,” he said. “Was it COVID or was it something else? There were some ladies in the neighborhood who were doing some research. Looking at symptoms, it kind of started to allude to maybe dengue.”

Bartlett told the Weekly it wasn’t until later in June that there started to be confirmation, and people went and got a blood test.

“At that point it wasn’t like it was being reported,” he said. “It was more word of mouth in that South Creek Village (located near MM 103, oceanside).”

Bartlett said coming down with dengue felt like a mild flu. By day three and four, he was in bed as “my body hurt from head to toe.”

All individuals who came down with dengue made a full recovery, as no deaths were reported.

New cases tapered off toward late August and early September.

HINDSIGHT 2020

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020 CHARLOTTE TWINE www.keysweekly.com

A TRYING YEAR THROUGH THE WORDS OF LOCALS

Editor’s note: A coronavirus pandemic that saw some of the first cases in the Keys in March changed life in ways no one could have imagined. A checkpoint kept visitors away from the island chain for a time, affecting many jobs, from servers to hoteliers. Policies were changed to address coronavirus spread in the community. Ultimately, the Keys reopened to visitors as workers in the tourist industry returned to work. Each week, the Weekly will highlight a local to share their 2020. This week, Charlotte Twine met up with Anthony Bennett IV, 25, a tattoo artist at the South of Heaven shop in Key Largo.

‘Having our son, Leighton — that was my high’

D

escribe the year 2020 in one word. (Long pause) Trying to think of a word that describes high and low at the same time. Euphoric? A euphoric rollercoaster [laughs].

Can you give me a specific example of that? Bringing life into the world — having our son, Leighton — that was my high. And the low was saying my last goodbyes to my grandfather. And COVID has a role in everything that just happened — all the events. It’s like, life was just coasting by, passing by, then 2020 was one for the books. What a weird year.

What was your worst moment of 2020? When my wife, Katelyn, and I had our baby, there was fluid in his lungs and complications. So we had the baby, then two hours later it was taken away. He was in intensive care for a couple weeks. It’s something only a parent can know. I felt the most numb and couldn’t … (pauses) I felt like I was on a different planet. I never felt like I was going crazy in my life, but at that moment I felt like I was going crazy. This was July 3. All is good now.

We have a fat, happy baby, and he’s doing good. Mama’s doing good.

Were there any challenging moments regarding COVID at your tattoo shop? We got shut down with the nonessentials. When the nonessentials opened back up — salons, barber shops, jobs of that nature — we figured we’re in that group. So we opened back up. Then the code lady comes and tells us we have to shut back down, that they had classified us with bars. We were in the same category as the Caribbean Club (shakes his head). I was very frustrated. So I tried to explain to the lady that on a daily basis, one artist comes into contact with one to five clients a day.

The volume of people who come in is minimum compared to a bar. And we’ve all been trained in cross-contamination. We always practice proper PPE, personal protective equipment, with gloves, and now we wear masks.

We use disposable, sterile equipment.

We deal with blood for a living, and we don’t know if the customer has a

disease, so we treat everyone like that. That’s why a tattoo shop is different from a bar.

Also, we were in the middle of tattooing. I was tattooing a throat.

And the code lady came and said we had to close it down in an hour.

I said, “Let me explain what I’m doing, it’s a medical procedure.” She said that she was getting the police. I said, “That’s okay, you guys. If you come, and I’m not finished with this tattoo, you can sit outside a locked door. This is serious what we do here. It’s not fun and games.

It’s not a desk job where I pack up my desk and go home.” Luckily, when she came back with the police, I was finished. So we shut down for two or three more weeks.

Do you know anyone who got sick from COVID-19? Yes, recently.

My mom got it. She lives in Tennessee. But she’s fine. My cousin who lives in Chicago just had a baby. He and his wife both got COVID, and the baby didn’t get it.

Do you know anyone who died from Covid-19? No. Did you experience financial stress in 2020 due to the pandemic?

Yes. So that’s very high and low, as well. Everything was pretty steady before COVID, then it hit in March. We shut down before spring break, when it starts booming. At the time, I didn’t have much savings.

Luckily, I have an awesome family. My aunt in Illinois sent me money for groceries. Once we were able to open back up, the last part of this year has been extremely, extremely busy. From June till the end of November has been record numbers.

What got you through the stress? My wife and child, of course.

They are always grounding when your mind is worried about life stuff.

My art. Working.

Do you practice social distancing personally?

Oh, yeah. (Laughs) Once, this drunk guy in Publix got behind me with beer, and his mask was on his chin, and he stands like two feet behind me. And I’m like, “Bro, back it up, dude, and pull up your mask.” He says, “What, are you the mask patrol?” I said, “Yeah, I am the mask patrol.”

He kept talking smack, so I walked out. There’s, like, old people walking around here. Don’t be an a**hole.

I’ve seen more selfishness in people than I’ve ever seen before. This isn’t about you.

You could be a transmitter and kill old people.

Has the social distancing caused stress at work? This guy let his mask slip down over his nose, and I said, “Listen, this is my house and my rules.” He put it on, and the situation got defused peacefully.

Do you think the social distancing works? Yes and no.

It’s not a 100 percent solution. But if you have people all wear a mask, you see the numbers go down.

Did you gain the “Quarantine 15”? I didn’t, but I fluctuate all the time. It’s been the same for me as before.

Any further thoughts on 2020? My grandfather’s death was a major event.

He passed Dec. 13. He was a gangster Marine. He was awesome. He was telling me, “My great-grandson won’t know who I am.” But I told him, “Don’t worry, he’ll know you’re a legend.” It was full circle this year, life and death and everything in between.

What are you looking forward to in 2021? My goal for 2021 is to work as little as possible and to spend time with my family. And I’m looking forward to not having to wear a mask anymore and taking my family out into the world. I had a great Christmas, but I’m glad it’s over.

I’m ready to take on the new year.

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

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COOL STUFF

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

Mainstreaming

51

A look at what they're doing on the mainland

NOW TRENDING

We have you covered, from one night that changes everything for a flight attendant, to an album whose Roman numeral might fool you, and on to scenes from a dark, intense hospital ward in Ireland.

LISTEN | McCARTNEY III McCartney III isn’t Paul McCartney’s third solo album. It’s actually his 18th. Bookended by acoustic songs about birds, much of the album feels appropriately homespun, unadorned and immediate.

“Slidin” is heavy and sludgy, and “Find My Way” is playful and “The Kiss of Venus” is fragile. The album was recorded by himself at his studio near his home in Sussex, England.

READ | THE PULL OF THE STARS In an Ireland doubly ravaged by war and disease, nurse Julia Power works at an understaffed hospital in the city center, where expectant mothers who have come down with the terrible new flu are quarantined together. Into Julia's regimented world step two outsiders — Doctor Kathleen Lynn, a rumored rebel on the run from the police, and a young volunteer helper, Bridie Sweeney. In the darkness and intensity of this tiny ward, over three days, these women change each other's lives in unexpected ways.

O

n Dec. 31, our friends at We’ve Got the Keys will present “Illuminate Key West,” asking everyone to step out at midnight and shine a light into the sky.

Florida Keys Media (our radio buddies at US1 Radio and their other four stations) will be broadcasting live to bring the Keys community together. During that show, our very own Top 10 from this week will be presented (with some possible radio edits to the dirty words), but you can read them all in advance right here.

For more on Illuminate Key West, see their ad on page 41.

Thanks, everyone, for humoring us as we attempt to humor you. Our New Year’s Resolution is to continue bringing you cheesy and outlandish Top 10s throughout 2021.

TOP 10 THINGS WE LEARNED DURING THE YEAR OF COVID 10. People are generally unhappy with systemic racism — unless they’re racist.

9. Watching tennis without spectators is actually more boring than watching tennis with spectators.

8. Every guy who couldn’t spell “cat” in high school is suddenly a doctor or attorney on social media.

7. Jeffery Toobin taught all of us the importance of double-checking the "camera off” feature on Zoom calls.

6. Everyone hates socialism. Except when the government starts sending out stimulus checks.

WATCH | THE FLIGHT ATTENDANT American flight attendant Cassie Bowden’s life changes in one night.

After a night out with a passenger she met on a flight, Bowden wakes up in a hotel room in Bangkok with a hangover and a dead man next to her. Played by actress Kaley Cuoco, Bowden tries to piece the night together while wondering who the killer could have been. Watch now on HBO Max.

5. We finally found a foolproof way to properly identify assholes. Just go back and document every idiot on Facebook arguing about wearing a mask.

4. We always said we would learn a new language, finish writing a novel or learn a musical instrument if we just had more time at home. Now we know that was all bullshit.

3. Just when we thought air travel couldn’t get any worse…

2. It was all fun and games until we ran out of toilet paper.

1. Learning Common Core math at home with your children is the equivalent of a root canal without novocaine.

52

2020 IN REVIEW

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

SARA MATTHIS

sara@keysweekly.com

OH, 2020 POP CULTURE Fleetwood Mac’s hit from 1977, “Dreams,” hit the top of the charts in 2020, thanks to Nathan Apodaca.

He’s the guy whose truck broke down so he jumped on his longboard to get to work. He filmed himself with a selfie stick, cruisin’ along to the tune and drinking a half gallon of Ocean Spray cranberry juice.

Good, good things came of this. The video on TikTok went viral and the drink company bought him a new truck. Then crowd-funding enabled him to buy a house for cash, getting him out of a RV. The internet’s interest in the truly random is wonderful.

A NEW LANGUAGE During 2020, everyone’s meme game was on point. What with COVID-19 and the election, the material seemed unlimited. Here are three favorites:

THINGS GOT A LITTLE WEIRD THIS YEAR

APOCALYPSE BINGO Remember the “Godzilla” dust storm missed the Keys and South Florida in late June? It was 3,500 miles wide (Seattle to Guatemala City, if you’re wondering) and the dust storm was 2 miles deep. The dust storm slipped under the Keys, and kept going right toward Texas.

Other key squares on the Apocalypse Bingo playing board: Australian bushfires burn what seems like the whole country; Kobe Bryant dies; city-size swarms of locusts descend on East Africa; pandemic; quarantine; collapse of the global economy; Britney Spears accidentally burned down her home gym; George Floyd is murdered by a cop in plain daylight; peaceful protests; violent riots; the ring-of-fire eclipse signaling what some call the end of the world; the U.S. government confirms UFO sightings and releases reports but nobody cares because, you know, COVID; 100-degree temperatures recorded in the Arctic, for crissake; etc., etc.

OUR TOP 5 STORIES Sometimes trained journalists have an inkling of what the public will like; sometimes we’re just as surprised as phytoplankton. Here are the Keys Weekly’s top five hit-generating headlines of the year, in order: 5. Florida Keys closing to visitors as of Sunday.

4. Sea ‘Weed’: Florida Keys fishermen catch a dozen bundles of pot.

3. Key West is in a state of mask chaos 2. New Florida Laws — 8 laws that went into effect 8 days ago 1. Which restaurants are open for dine-in, ‘to-go’ and delivery

NEW WORDS The Oxford English Dictionary added 203 new words to the dictionary in 2020. We picked four of our favorites: • Jafaican, n. and adj.: A non-Jamaican person who adopts or identifies with aspects of Jamaican culture, esp. in a way regarded as contrived or inauthentic.

• kapow, int.: Representing the sound of an explosion, a gunshot, a hard punch or blow, etc. Also in extended use, conveying the suddenness or powerful effect.

• nomophobia, n.2: Anxiety about not having access to a mobile phone or mobile phone services.

• whatevs, int. and pron.: Used (typically in response to a question or statement) to indicate that the speaker is disinclined to engage with, or is indifferent to, the matter.

WEIRDEST 2020 STORY BY ISLAND Marathon: The day rapper Vanilla Ice came to Marathon to film a Monster Energy drink commercial and it was also really foggy for some reason.

Plus, the amount of fan-girling by the elementary school teachers who got to fawn over their adolescent crush.

Key West: The Jet Ski graduation for Somerset Island Prep in Key West.

Nothing says “congratulations” like wearing a cap and gown and operating a PWC to the back of a paragliding boat to get a piece of paper from the principal standing on a swim platform.

Upper Keys: The haunting of Snake Creek Bridge. (Seriously, it kept breaking.)

W

ith quarantine and stay-at-home orders, the world had a chance to … get weird. Really weird. Boredom led to lots of new and amateur content online and made bread makers out of quite a few people. Here are some of my favorite, most interesting and weird facts about 2020.

LEANING ON GOOGLE Google publishes a list of its top searches of the year. (1: election results; 3: Kobe Bryant; 2, 4 and 5: COVID.) Besides those, everyone was talking about making bread from scratch (in fact, yeast suppliers couldn’t keep up with demand), that we totally overlooked what was happening in the Latin market. The top recipe searches in Spanish were for flan, aguachiles (like shrimp ceviche, but add cucumbers), piña colada, arroz con leche (rice pudding) and tinga de pollo (shredded chicken for a tostada).

EVERY PARTY NEEDS A POOPER One final word about 2020. When the clock strikes midnight on 2020, don’t expect everything to be magically better. Instead, wrap up in a nice warm snuggie of comedy and just keep going. Our final, final words: please never ever hoard toilet paper again.

2020 IN REVIEW

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

53

WINGING IT

A Florida man was taken into custody on Dec. 29 after reportedly stealing all the chicken wings and other hot food from a Naples 7-Eleven.

According to the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called just after 8:20 p.m. for a man who reportedly put on gloves, took food items and left the store without paying for them.

The clerk said the man, who wasn’t identified at the time of the report, is a frequent visitor. The last time, he allegedly ate three chicken wings in front of the clerk and left without paying. The man was later found and taken into custody. He was charged with disorderly conduct.

IGUANA INJURES MAN

And it occurred right here in the Keys. A 62-year-old Marathon man was taken to the hospital with head injuries on the morning of July 9 after his bike crashed into an iguana. Monroe County Sheriff’s Traffic Enforcement Unit Deputy Andrew Leird responded at 10:48 a.m. to the bicycle path area in front of Crane Point Hammock.

There he found the victim with scrapes and cuts to his head, arms and right leg. The victim said he was traveling south on the bicycle path when an iguana darted out in front of him from the median grass area. The iguana became lodged between the front tire and front wheel fork of the bicycle, causing the front tire to lock, which threw the victim over the handlebars and onto the asphalt.

The victim was taken to Fishermen’s Hospital in stable condition. The condition of the iguana did not appear as stable.

GYMNASTICS ON THE HIGHWAY JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

ONLY IN FLORIDA Hard to believe, but these things all really happened in 2020

The Sunshine State is known for interesting incidents and bizarre crimes, and 2020 had its share of each. From a grim reaper on the beach to a claim of stealing toilet paper to give to the poor, here are some of the stories that could only happen here.

TOILET PAPER TAKEAWAY

‘GRIM REAPER BEACH TOUR’

Beaches reopened in Northwest Florida in May, and one lawyer wasn’t in favor of it — so much that he dressed as a grim reaper. Daniel W. Uhlfelder, a lawyer and resident of Walton County, called it his “Grim Reaper Beach Tour” to protest the decision by local and state governments to reopen beaches to locals and tourists. Dressing as the grim reaper, Uhlfelder would walk up and down the beaches to spread his message.

A toilet paper shortage earlier in the year brought one man to steal more than 60 rolls from an Orlando hotel. According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Angel Hernandezcinto was arrested after taking 66 toilet paper rolls from the Marriott Hotel on World Center Drive. A security guard said he saw the 31-year-old pushing a trash can to his van and put a bag inside. The guard peered through the window to find a bag full of unused toilet paper rolls from the hotel. When Hernandezcinto came back out, deputies said he admitted to taking the 66 rolls of toilet paper, which were valued at $0.99 each.

Hernandezcinto reportedly told the guard that he knew a lady who was poor and had no job and he was taking the toilet paper to help her and her family.

A 40-year-old man who allegedly blocked traffic in Orlando on July 21 was eventually captured by police after evading them by cartwheeling away.

Video captured by Olivier Francois shows the man in the path of a truck near a Wawa. In the video, the man lies down in the middle of the highway. Orange County sheriff's deputies attempt to detain the man, who frees himself and performs a cartwheel before being detained again.

According to the sheriff’s office, the gymnast, Gianfranco Fernandez, was charged with battery on a law enforcement officer and resisting arrest.

54

2020 IN REVIEW

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

BEST QUOTES OF 2020 Super Bowl champion and owner of Islamorada’s OceanView Inn, GARY DUNN, on one of his fondest memories at the bar and restaurant in a January interview with the Weekly: “Dennis (Harrah) and I just bought the place two days ago. We were sitting just looking around when all of a sudden the door opened up. In comes a chicken flying around an older guy by the name of “Rusty.”

Feathers are going everywhere and Rusty’s chasing the chicken around here, knocking down tables. Everybody at the bar just sat here with their drinks. Dennis and I were like ‘What the hell was that?’ They go, ‘Oh, that was Rusty. His chicken comes here all the time.’”

TERESA MCKINNA on the uniqueness of the Jules’ Undersea Park in Key Largo and a Texas couple’s decision in February to renew wedding vows underneath the surface: “There is nowhere else in the world you can scuba dive to your underwater hotel room, have pizza delivered, and sleep with the fishes. So naturally, it makes for a very memorable vow renewal.”

CORK FRIEDMAN conceived and produced a television show called “Coast Guard Mission Critical” that aired on the History Channel. Over the course of filming, he had this to say about Marathon’s local, watery leadership: “Master Chief Timaree Sparks from Station Marathon is one of the most bad*$$ women I’ve ever met.”

Days after the governor closed bars and ended indoor dining in restaurants, volunteers with Sister Season Fund and One Clean Island masked up and spread out at the 801 Bar to sell face masks. The proceeds were used to provide $1,000 assistance checks to struggling service industry workers. JIM GILLERAN of the 801 and One Clean Island said of the sudden industry shutdown: “We have to look beyond the current train wreck; we have to look forward.

Key West is uniquely positioned to come together as a business community, because it’s what we’ve always done. This is part of who we are.”

Keys Weekly’s in-house astrologist, author and all-around cool chick, REDA WIGLE, gave a brilliant summary of the arrival of Sagittarius: “Ruled by Jupiter, the fun, drunk, van-dwelling uncle of the solar system, Sagittarius is the official sign of letting the good times roll.”

One of the worst kept secrets in Marathon was that a bunch of lucky kids were headed to Super Bowl LIV in Miami at the start of January. A handful of drama students and cheerleaders were under a gag order for their upcoming role in the halftime show with Jennifer Lopez. But the culinary team from Marathon High School who would participate in “Taste of the NFL” were able to speak freely, including CHEF CARL “FLAVOR” STANTON: “I think you could say we are beyond excited. I’m a little geeked myself. It’s a chance to see some of my heroes.”

The day after voters mandated a huge reduction to the city’s cruise ship industry, KEY WEST CITY MANAGER GREG VELIZ spoke with Keys Weekly about next steps and expected lawsuits: “I have met with the cruise industry officials, and the same companies that own the smaller ships also own the bigger ships. I don’t mind telling you guys exactly what they told me, which is, that inviting the smaller ships to come to Key West, but not the big ones, is like inviting me to your dinner party, but not my wife and kids.

“This is a business decision that became a political decision. Obviously this will go to court, which could take years, and we’ll have to defend the amendments to our city charter. I’m sure Pier B will file suit.”

“I’m not confident the county has the ability to pay this overtime.”

— Clerk of Court KEVIN MADOK on the $1.5 million accrued by county employees during the first month of the pandemic when the county’s emergency pay policy was enacted and later amended.

On July 1, Marathon’s Chase Grimes had a serious dive accident. What transpired next was an outpouring of love and fundraising for this favorite son of Marathon.

His best friend TODD SPANO had this to say: “Chase is my best friend and my life wouldn’t be the same without him.

Like, once he made me laugh so hard in the restaurant I started crying and people thought he just broke up with me.”

Keys Weekly sat down with master goldsmith and jewelry designer SPENCER KRENKE and asked what 20-second anecdote he would share with Alex Trebek on Jeopardy!: “For my 50th birthday at a club in Ibiza, a fabulous drag queen was doing Madonna. Madonna and I share a birthday. The drag queen chatted me up on a crowded dance floor. I realized only afterward, it wasn’t a drag queen, and I missed my opportunity to get some new material, girl.”

55

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

CONGRATULATIONS To our BUYERS & SELLERS. We hope you enjoy your new homes.

Karen represented the Sellers of: 300 12th Street, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051 A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC

Karen Raspe, PA | 305.393.9010 | karenraspe@bellsouth.net

Tavernier Business Center

NOW HIRING: WEB DEVELOPER/ DESIGNER We're looking for an experienced website designer to work with our digital marketing company, on various web development and website maintenance projects (new and existing clients). Work can be performed remotely, with open communication for ongoing projects to be completed via conference calling, virtual meetings and email.

All candidates must be passionate about industry trends, and incorporating best practices into all work to be performed. We're looking for someone who is creative and organized with a high-level of attention to detail for website development, SEO and SEM, and reporting for all web design projects.

THE RIGHT PERSON WILL HAVE: • Ability to prioritize and balance multiple projects in a fast-paced team environment.

• Proven proficiency in common UX, SEO and accessibility best practices • Excellent teamwork and collaboration skills as well as the ability to work independently.

• Front-end development + WordPress knowledge to develop high-quality, high-functioning and websites for clients as well as internal projects.

Please send your current resume and links to recent examples of your work to: Annie@overseasmediagroup.com

Beautiful Office space available for rent Now on US 1 In Tavernier @ MM 92, call 305-394-0530

WE LOOK FORWARD TO CONNECTING WITH YOU!

56

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Wheatons Towing gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 01/11/2021, 10:00 am at 101500 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037, pursuant to subsection 713.78 of the Florida Statutes.

Wheatons Towing reserves the right to accept or reject any and/all bids.

1GNCS18W7YK161846 2000 CHEVROLET Publish: December 31, 2020 and January 7, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

Social distancing, the wearing of a facial covering and other Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Florida Department of Health (FDOH) guidelines pertaining to COVID-19 will be followed and observed.

This meeting will be available virtually via Zoom Meetings.

Members of the public who wish to view virtually may join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/84132516799 Meeting ID: 841 3251 6799. Please ensure that all registration and system requirements in order to connect to the Public Hearing via the Zoom virtual platform have been satisfied prior to the above mentioned date and time. For further information email cityclerk@ keycolonybeach.net or call 305259-1212 option 2. In the event an Executive Order or Monroe County Emergency Directive requires the facility to be closed on the date of the hearing, the hearing will be held exclusively on Zoom platform.

Applicant requests a Variance to Land Development Regulations Chapter 101, Section 26 (2) for a 40 square feet floor area variance for a dock side shelter.

Current maximum floor area is restricted to 80 square feet.

Interested parties may appear at the Hearing and be heard with respect to the requested variance.

If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Variance Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

If you are unable to attend the Hearing on Thursday January 14, 2021 but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to: City Commission, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, or cityclerk@ keycolonybeach.net and your comments will be entered into the record.

Rebecca Todd, City Clerk CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH Publish: December 31, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

on Zoom platform.

Applicant requests a Variance to Land Development Regulations Chapter 101, Section 10 (5) for a 30 feet rear setback variance for a porch. Current setback is restricted to 50 feet.

Interested parties may appear at the Hearing and be heard with respect to the requested variance.

If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Variance Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

If you are unable to attend the Hearing on Wednesday January 20, 2021 but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to: City Commission, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, or cityclerk@ keycolonybeach.net and your comments will be entered into the record.

Rebecca Todd, City Clerk CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH Publish: December 31, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING MONROE COUNTY CONTRACTORS EXAMINING BOARD MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Notice is Hereby Given To Whom it may concern, that on Tuesday, January 5, 2021 the Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (CEB) will hold a scheduled meeting at the Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Second Floor, BOCC Room, Marathon, Florida commencing at 9:30 A.M. This meeting is to hear the following: any person(s) to come before the board; any reports from Monroe County Assistant Attorney; any reports from Monroe County Building Official; any reports from Staff.

Monroe County Facial Covering Ordinance 026-2020 remains in effect. Guidelines established to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (“CEB”) will review Certificate of Competency Trade Applications via Communication Media Technology (“CMT”) using Zoom Webinar platform, during the scheduled meeting.

Zoom Webinar information will be made available on the Monroe County Web Calendar.

PURSUANT TO FLORIDA STATUTE SECTION 286.0105, be advised that, if a person decides to appeal the decision made by the Contractors’ Examining Board with respect to any matter considered at today’s hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he or she may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

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

NOTICE: It shall be the responsibility of each Respondent or other person addressing the Board to have an interpreter if the party is not able to understand or speak the English language.

Rick Griffin, Building Official/ Board Secretary Maria Partington, Senior Coordinator – CEB Board Monroe County Building Department Publish: December 31, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF VARIANCE HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold a Public Hearing on Thursday January 14, 2021 at 9:30 A.M., Key Colony Beach City Hall commission room, to hear a Variance Request from Albert Gentile, owner of 310 14th St.

CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF VARIANCE HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning & Zoning Board of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold a Public Hearing on Wednesday January 20, 2021 at 9:30 A.M., Key Colony Beach City Hall commission room, to hear a Variance Request from Crawl Key Development, owner of Lot 11 15th Circle. Social distancing, the wearing of a facial covering and other Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Florida Department of Health (FDOH) guidelines pertaining to COVID-19 will be followed and observed.

This meeting will be available virtually via Zoom Meetings.

Members of the public who wish to view virtually may join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/86169318528 Meeting ID: 861 6931 8528. Please ensure that all registration and system requirements in order to connect to the Public Hearing via the Zoom virtual platform have been satisfied prior to the above mentioned date and time. For further information email cityclerk@ keycolonybeach.net or call 305259-1212 option 2. In the event an Executive Order or Monroe County Emergency Directive requires the facility to be closed on the date of the hearing, the hearing will be held exclusively

CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF VARIANCE HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning & Zoning Board of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold a Public Hearing on Wednesday January 20, 2021 at 9:30 A.M., Key Colony Beach City Hall commission room, to hear a Variance Request from Yuna Leary, owner of 421 8th St. Social distancing, the wearing of a facial covering and other Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Florida Department of Health (FDOH) guidelines pertaining to COVID-19 will be followed and observed.

This meeting will be available virtually via Zoom Meetings.

Members of the public who wish to view virtually may join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/86169318528 Meeting ID: 861 6931 8528. Please ensure that all registration and system requirements in order to connect to the Public Hearing via the Zoom virtual platform have been satisfied prior to the above mentioned date and time. For further information email cityclerk@ keycolonybeach.net or call 305259-1212 option 2. In the event an Executive Order or Monroe County Emergency Directive requires the facility to be closed on the date of the hearing, the hearing will be held exclusively on Zoom platform.

Applicant requests a Variance to Land Development Regulations Chapter 101, Section 26 (11a) for a 5 feet side setback variance for a pool. Current setback is restricted to 10 feet.

Interested parties may appear at the Hearing and be heard with respect to the requested variance.

If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Variance Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

If you are unable to attend the Hearing on Wednesday January 20, 2021 but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to: City Commission, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, or cityclerk@

LEGAL NOTICES keycolonybeach.net and your comments will be entered into the record.

Rebecca Todd, City Clerk CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH Publish: December 31, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 20-CP-000124-P IN RE: ESTATE OF JAMES WILLIAM BOKOR, SR., Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of James William Bokor, Sr., deceased, whose date of death was November 9th, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 50 High Point Road, Tavernier, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: December 31, 2020.

Personal Representative: Maryann Bokor 436 Sunshine Boulevard Tavernier, FL 33070 Attorney for Personal Representative: JOE MIKLAS, P.A. 88765 OVERSEAS HWY TAVERNIER, FL 33070 305-852-7225 Florida Bar No. 163915 Email Address: joe@ floridakeyslawoffice.com Publish: December 31, 2020 and January 7, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2020-CP-000048-P IN RE: ESTATE OF MICHAEL DEAN MORELAND a/k/a MICHAEL D. MORELAND, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of MICHAEL DEAN MORELAND a/k/a MICHAEL D. MORELAND, deceased, whose date of death was April 13, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, File Number 2020-CP000048-P, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, Florida 33070.

The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOT WITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of the first publication of this notice is December 31, 2020.

Personal Representative: LISA NICHOLS Attorney for Personal Representative: BART H. CHEPENIK, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 0038962 Primary E-mail: bchepenik@ ctllp.com Secondary E-mail: probateservice@ctllp.com ADAM M. NICOLL, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 113370 Primary E-mail: anicoll@ctllp. com Secondary E-mail: probateservice@ctllp.com Chepenik Trushin LLP Attorneys for Personal Representative 12550 Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 805 Miami, Florida 33181 Telephone: (305) 981-8889 Facsimile: (305) 405-7979 Publish: December 31, 2020 & January 7, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of the first publication of this notice is December 31, 2020.

Personal Representative: Julie Bressler Bank of America (successor to NationsBank, N.A.), as Personal Representative of the Estate of Allan L.McLeod, Jr. 50 Central Ave., Suite 750 Sarasota, Florida 34236 Attorney for Personal Representative: Bruce D. Green Attorney Florida Bar Number: 260533 GREEN SCHOENFELD & KYLE LLP 1380 Royal Palms Square FORT MYERS, FL 33919 Telephone: (239) 936-7200 Fax: (239) 936-7997 E-Mail: brucegreen@ gskattorneys.com Secondary E-Mail: lisaelliott@ gskattorneys.com Publish: December 31, 2020 & January 7, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE # 44-2020-CP-000129-P IN RE: ESTATE OF DEBORAH HYATT, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of, DEBORAH HYATT, deceased, whose date of death was 26 April 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, 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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: December 31, 2020.

Co-Personal Representatives: Lesley Hyatt 87465 Old Highway, Unit 108 Islamorada, FL 33036 William Duane Hyatt 18 North Riding Drive Cherry Hill, NJ 08003 Attorney for Personal Representatives: Tom Woods, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 0525197 116 Porto Salvo Drive Islamorada, Florida 33036 Phone 305.664.2200 Publish: December 31, 2020 and January 7, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 20-CP-118-P IN RE: ESTATE OF ALLAN L. MCLEOD, JR., Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Allan L. McLeod, Jr., deceased, whose date of death was November 27, 2019, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against 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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 20-CP-000093-P IN RE: ESTATE OF DONNA STUDENSKI, Decedent.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate if Donna Studenski, deceased, whose date of death was April 1, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88800 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the Personal Representative appointed by the Court 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 SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD 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 31, 2020.

Personal Representative: Shawn Turek 19195 Tamara Lane Jupiter, Florida 33458 Attorney for Personal Representative: Joseph S. Paglino, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0119776 2131 Hollywood Boulevard, Suite 307 Hollywood, Florida 33020 Email: Joe@PaglinoLaw.com Ph. (954) 921-1448 Fax (954) 924-4933 Publish: December 31, 2020 and January 7, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 20-CP-000091-M IN RE: ESTATE OF DIANE MARIE FILETTO, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Diane Marie Filetto, deceased, whose date of death was November 11, 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.

57

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: December 24, 2020.

Personal Representative: Joseph Paul Filetto 7676 Cedar Drive Pasadena, Maryland 21122 Attorney for Personal Representative: Robert K. Miller, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 0359173 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: December 24 & 31, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

Dated this 3 day of December, 2020 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shakia Mitchell Deputy Clerk Publish: December 10, 17, 24 & 31, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

Ana Aguera Revocable Trust Dated February 6, 2019 20221 SW 48th Place Southwest Ranches, FL 33332 Last Known Address YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose a claim of lien on the below described real property in Monroe County, Florida has been filed against you: Lot 33, Port Antigua Plat No. 1, according to the Plat thereof, Recorded in Plat Book 6, Page(s) 13, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida Parcel ID 00394486-003300 You are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to the Complaint on Plaintiff’s attorneys, John. W. Annesser, Esq., Annesser Armenteros, PLLC, 2525 Ponce De Leon Blvd., Suite 625, Coral Gables, Florida 33134, (786) 600-7446, service@ aa-firm.com, jannesser@aa-firm. com, mconkey@aa.firm.com and lconley@aa-firm.com, on or before January 18, 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 or petition.

DATED on December 11, 2020.

Kevin Madok, CPA, Clerk As Clerk of the Court By: Riza Tabag As Deputy Clerk Publish: December 24 & 31, 2020 and January 7 & 14, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No.: 2020-DR-628-K Division: Family DANIEL ARIC HYLTON, Petitioner/Husband, and MIROSLAVA PATAKYOVA, Respondent/Wife.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: MIROSLAVA PATAKYOVA Last Known Address: 1992 SEIDENBERG AVENUE, KEY WEST, FLORIDA 33040 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Cynthia F. Civil, Esq., CYNTHIA F. CIVIL, P.A., Attorney for Petitioner, whose address is 5196 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050, on or before January 10, 2021, and file the original with the Clerk of the Circuit Court, Family Division, 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request.

You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address.

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

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

rd

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No.: 2020-DR-795-K Division: Family ELCANA ANILUS, Petitioner, and JEAN GEORGE DANY HOE, Respondent.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: Jean George Dany Hoe Last Known Address: YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Elcana Anilus, whose address is 6500 Maloney Avenue, Lot 16, Key West, FL 33040, on or before January 31, 2021, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request.

You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address.

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

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

Dated this 22nd day of December, 2020 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Riza Tabag Deputy Clerk Publish: December 31, 2020 and January 7, 14 & 21, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No.: 20-CA-208-P NEPTUNE ATLANTIC BOAT LIFTS, LLC, a Florida limited liability company, Plaintiff, v.

CARLOS MICHAEL AGUERA, individually and as Co-Trustee of the Carlos and Ana Aguera Revocable Trust Dated February 6, 2019, and ANA C. AGUERA, as Co-Trustee of the Carlos and Ana Aguera Revocable Trust Dated February 6, 2019, Defendants.

NOTICE OF ACTION TO: Carlos Michael Aguera, as Co-Trustee of The Carlos and

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No.: 20-CA-208-P NEPTUNE ATLANTIC BOAT LIFTS, LLC, a Florida limited liability company, Plaintiff, v.

CARLOS MICHAEL AGUERA, individually and as Co-Trustee of the Carlos and Ana Aguera Revocable Trust Dated February 6, 2019, and ANA C. AGUERA, as Co-Trustee of the Carlos and Ana Aguera Revocable Trust Dated February 6, 2019, Defendants.

NOTICE OF ACTION TO: Carlos Michael Aguera, Individually 20221 SW 48th Place Southwest Ranches, FL 33332 Last Known Address YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose a claim of lien on the below described real property in Monroe County, Florida has been filed against you: Lot 33, Port Antigua Plat No. 1, according to the Plat thereof, Recorded in Plat Book 6, Page(s) 13, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida Parcel ID 00394486-003300 You are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to the Complaint on Plaintiff’s attorneys, John. W. Annesser, Esq., Annesser Armenteros, PLLC, 2525 Ponce De Leon Blvd., Suite 625, Coral Gables, Florida 33134, (786) 600-7446, service@ aa-firm.com, jannesser@aa-firm. com, mconkey@aa.firm.com and lconley@aa-firm.com, on or before January 18, 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 or petition.

DATED on December 11, 2020.

Kevin Madok, CPA, Clerk As Clerk of the Court By: Riza Tabag As Deputy Clerk Publish: December 24 & 31, 2020 and

LEGAL NOTICES January 7 & 14, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No.: 20-CA-208-P NEPTUNE ATLANTIC BOAT LIFTS, LLC, a Florida limited liability company, Plaintiff, v.

CARLOS MICHAEL AGUERA, individually and as Co-Trustee of the Carlos and Ana Aguera Revocable Trust Dated February 6, 2019, and ANA C. AGUERA, as Co-Trustee of the Carlos and Ana Aguera Revocable Trust Dated February 6, 2019, Defendants.

NOTICE OF ACTION TO: Ana C. Aguera, as Co-Trustee of the Carlos and Ana Aguera Revocable Trust Dated February 6, 2019 20221 SW 48th Place Southwest Ranches, FL 33332 Last Known Address YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose a claim of lien on the below described real property in Monroe County, Florida has been filed against you: Lot 33, Port Antigua Plat No. 1, according to the Plat thereof, Recorded in Plat Book 6, Page(s) 13, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida Parcel ID 00394486-003300 You are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to the Complaint on Plaintiff’s attorneys, John. W. Annesser, Esq., Annesser Armenteros, PLLC, 2525 Ponce De Leon Blvd., Suite 625, Coral Gables, Florida 33134, (786) 600-7446, service@ aa-firm.com, jannesser@aa-firm. com, mconkey@aa.firm.com and lconley@aa-firm.com, on or before January 18, 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 or petition.

DATED on December 11, 2020.

Kevin Madok, CPA, Clerk As Clerk of the Court By: Riza Tabag As Deputy Clerk Publish: December 24 & 31, 2020 and January 7 & 14, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 20-CA-000247-K DIVISION: Civil Beach House Condominium Association of Key West, Inc., a nonprofit corporation under the laws of the State of Florida, Plaintiff, vs.

Pamela Loriene Hutchinson, et al.

Defendants.

Notice of Sale as to Count(s) I Notice is hereby given that on January 13, 2021 at 11:00AM, the below named Clerk of Court will, at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the following described Timeshare Ownership Interest: Unit B34, Week 37, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). (Contract No.: 3-9855)

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from this sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens must file a claim before the clerk reports the surplus as unclaimed.

The sale is being held pursuant to the Final Judgment of Foreclosure, entered on December 10, 2020, in Civil Case No. 20-CA-000257-K, pending in the Circuit Court in Monroe County, Florida.

KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Publish: December 24 & 31, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

preparing required documentation and reports. Bachelor’s Degree preferred. The successful applicant will be required to pass a complete background check. Salary is $55,000 annually with Monroe County benefits.

Please send a resume, cover letter and a State of Florida application to Personnel, 16th Judicial Circuit, 302 Fleming Street, Key West, Florida 33040 or by e-mail to Personnel@Keyscourts. net. Applications are being accepted until the position is filled. Applications and job description can be found at www.KeysCourts. net. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, age or disability.

If you need accommodations to participate in the application/selection process, please notify us in advance at (305)295-3652; to make call through the Florida Relay Center, you can dial 7-1-1.

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.

CLASSIFIEDS AUTOS WANTED ALL YEARS! Junk or Used.

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

AUTOS FOR SALE 1997 Cadillac Sedan Deville for sale. Pampered FL car, only 83K miles, in great condition.

Located in Marathon. $2,750 305-904-4151 Place your Car For Sale ad here. Only $25.00/ week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today and Sell Your Car! 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. $15,000 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 The 16th Judicial Circuit is accepting applications for a Senior User Support Analyst in Key West to work 40 hours a week. The position is responsible for providing training to system users and/or providing analysis and support to the Court network infrastructure, email systems, manage and deploy Windows based workstations, performing data and system backup, providing anti-virus maintenance and support, leading and/or supervising user support staff, maintain the Court web site, and

CDL Driver needed.

Minimum 2 years experience.

Call 305248-6149 to apply.

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

Keys Fisheries looking to hire Process Foods Manager, pie makers, process food workers, lobster processors and forklift 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 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

FLORIDA KEYS DIESEL - MARATHON

NOW HIRING: 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.

SUDOKU

SOLUTION

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

: g n i r u t a e F w o N

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

Call 305-743-7111 Ext 205 Today!

www.keysahec.com

59

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

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

HOUSING FOR RENT

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.

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!!!

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!

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!

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.

HIRED TWO NEW EMPLOYEES thanks to advertising in the Keys Weekly Newspapers!!

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.

HIRED IN LESS THAN ONE MONTH!!

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

HOUSING FOR RENT 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!!!

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

YARD SALES 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!

I

in Marathon

full -time Educational Program Guide /Gift Shop Sales. Public speaking & retail sales experience helpful. 3 Send resume to:

Royal Furniture in Marathon and Key West is looking for a motivated, hardworking store manager.

COMPETITIVE PAY & BENEFITS AVAILABLE

NOW HIRING! Part Time Maintenance

Call Christopher: 305-481-1790

Housekeepers for Saturday and some Sunday Call 305-587-0359 to apply.

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

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

www.RoyalFurnitureAndDesign.com

Royal Furniture in Marathon and Key West is looking for motivated, hardworking people to join our sales team.

COMPETITIVE PAY & BENEFITS AVAILABLE Call Christopher: 305-481-1790

Send your confidential resume to britt@keysweekly.com. www.RoyalFurnitureAndDesign.com

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC && LEGAL NOTICES • • 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 Dynasty Marine Associates, Inc.

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

Bungalows Key Largo is an EOE

IS HIRING! KEY LARGO

Case Manager (Children) Client Advocate

KEY WEST

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

MARATHON

Behavioral Health Counselor Behavioral Health Therapist (Children) RNs and LPNs (3 shifts) (PT/FT & per diem) Engagement Specialist (Suicide Prevention) Peer Support Specialist Drop In Technician (PT) *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.

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

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 $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.

www.dynastymarine.net Located in the Florida Keys, is a highly-respected supplier of Caribbean marine life to public aquariums and zoos throughout the world.

FRONT OFFICE ASSISTANT/LOGISTICS Duties to include invoice and inventory entry, booking airline shipments, creating and filing paperwork for international shipments, scheduling inspections needed for international shipments. Must be proficient in Microsoft word, outlook, and excel. This position requires high attention to detail and the ability to multitask. Compensation will be dependent on experience with performance-based incentive program. Benefits package including vacation, sick days, holidays and 401K PSP retirement plan. Please send cover letter and resume to sales@dynastymarine.net for consideration. No phone calls please.

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

61

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

DJ RYAN JAMS AT OUR OCEANFRONT POOLSIDE TIKI BAR FROM 1PM TO 5PM

Y A D N U F Y A D 537 SUN

O T N I G N I V I D 21 20 TH

WELCOMES THE NEWEST AGENT OF KEY WEST’S LUXURY REAL ESTATE BRAND

Dominic Paolillo Global Real Estate Advisor 305.304.7062 dominic@oceansir.com

BEACHP&ARTY POOL 2021

CORNHAOMLEENT TOURN ACH ON THNE TBEEAMS) (2 MA H PRIZE! CAS

, JANUARY 3

MARATHON’S NFL HEADQUARTERS! HOME OF “NFL SUNDAY TICKET”

GRILLED ON THE POOL DECK • World Famous Cheeseburgers • Short Rib Smoked Gouda BBQ Burger • BBQ Bacon Wrapped Shrimp & Scallops • BBQ Baby Back Ribs • Bacon Wrapped Lobster • Grilled Ribeye Sandwiches • Grilled Bratwurst • Blackened Dolphin Sandwiches • Chili Cheese Dogs

16 HDTV’S WITH ALL THE NFL ACTION VOTED BEST SUNSET & BEST WATERFRONT DINING

DRINK SPECIALS • $2 Coors Lights • Hurricane Specials • Cruzan Rum Specials • $2 Jello Shots

Each office is independently owned and operated

305.396.7235 • 7 KNIGHTS KEY BOULEVARD • MM 47 (AT THE FOOT OF THE 7 MILE BRIDGE, OCEAN) • SUNSETGRILLE7MILEBRIDGE.COM

OPEN TUESDAY THRU SUNDAY!

PRIVATE SHOPPING PARTIES AVIALABLE

BY RESERVATION VINTAGE | EXCELLENT CONDITION | PRE-LOVED & NEW WOMEN’S CLOTHING | ACCESSORIES 218 WHITEHEAD STREET #4 | KEY WEST | 305.847.9977 PAID PARKING GARAGE NEXT TO MARGARITAVILLE RESORT

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @KIRBYSCLOSETKW

62

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

LET’S DO BUSINESS - 305.743-0844 GENERAL CONTRACTORS & ENGINEERS

SPALLING phone: 305-743-6881 AmericanCoastalRentals.com Leslie@AmericanCoastalRentals.com 9141 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050

EXPERTS

2728 North Roosevelt Blvd.

Overseas Market Key West

Proud member of:

INTERNATIONAL

CONCRETE REPAIR INSTITUTE

SOLAR DONE RIGHT! CALL US FOR A FREE HOME ESTIMATE

Sewer Connections 305

872-1876

• New Construction • Remodeling • Irrigation

305

NOW HIRING!

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

• SINCE 1989 •

296-BLUE

305-289-1150

• Heavy Equipment • Solar Lic## RF11067168

PC 606

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

Florida Solar Contractor CVC 56734

Barbara Sanchez

Tewes Mortgage

Home & Offices Expertly Cleaned Fast Dependable Service

Your local, residential lending expert!

Call 305.495.6000

“We Clean Your Place, Like it Was Our Place”

for a FREE Consultation

Brian Tewes

Excellent References Upon Request

Customer service is my strength Brian@tewesmortgage.com

NMLS# 375025 Tewes Mortgage NMLS# 1453791 NMLSConsumerAccess.org

www.TewesMortgage.com

Appliance and Air Conditioning

Serving Monroe, Dade & Broward Including Airports & Ports.

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

Serving Key Largo to Key West

305-743-7454

fkes2011@gmail.com floridakeysexpressshuttle.com

Will Campbell President

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

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

Only $50 Puts Your Business Card Here

Nails by Ivis

Manicures • Pedicures Acrylics • Gelish • Facials • Waxing

5177 Overseas Highway

(Between Office Depot & Main Post Office)

Marathon, FL 33050 305-289-1631

www.marathonhairandnailsalon.com

TEAM SCHUTT ANNA J SCHUTT

REALTOR® | Luxury Specialist

305.923.9226 BUTCH "BLAST" SCHUTT REALTOR® 305.743.1979 Cell: 305-363-8330 Office: 305-735-4626 will@cecflk.com www.CECFLK.com

305-766-0819 305-924-0179

11050 Overseas Hwy, Marathon keyswaterfrontspecialist@gmail.com teamschutt.realestatefloridakeys.com Each office is independently owned and operated

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

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

63

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

LET’S DO BUSINESS - 305.743.0844 MARATHON • KEY COLONY OWNERS

START EARNING 305 3902315

WWW.KEYSRENTALSONLINE.COM OFFER YOUR ENJOY EXPERT MAXIMIZE GUESTS A VIP PROPERTY YOUR INCOME EXPERIENCE MAINTENANCE POTENTIAL

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

Petersen Repair & Maintenance • Flooring • Inside Trim Work • Door Replacement • Landscaping • Fencing

• Plastering & Stucco • Masonry & Spalling Repair • Waterproof & Roof Painting • Interior & Exterior Painting • Parking Lot Striping

Karen Raspe

Realtor 305-393-9010 karenraspe@bellsouth.net

SP# 4434, 4435, 4436, 4437, 4438. 4439. 4448, 4449, 4450, 4451

Charlie Petersen 920-371-3107 | PetersenRepair@yahoo.com

FRESH FLORIDA LOBSTERS FROM

Licensed & Insured #SP33799

ALL KEYS GLASS

We Also Repair & Replace Patio Door Screens

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Windows • Doors

305-998-8953 Insured • Professional • Reliable

305-743-7800

9141 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050 www.karenraspe.com

THE NICHOLS CREW DIRECT TO YOU

Authorized Dealer

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

MM63 -MM74 | 305.393.1415

LIVE $10.00 A POUND TAILS $10.00 EACH

STONE CRABS ON REQUEST

Licensed & Insured Contractor # CACO53827

ARTIC TEMP, INC.

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

Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

Residential, Commercial & Marine Ice Machine - Sales - Service Phone: (305) 743-5288

Floor & Wall Tiles Porcelain/Planks Marble Carpets Quartz & Granite Countertops

Fax: (305) 743-6887

We Do Installations!

Licensed & Insured

FREE ESTIMATES U.S.1 & 109th St, Marathon (Across from Beall’s Outlet)

Lic#SP-3562

Rachel Sanderson Rachellynnes94@gmail.com 305.393.3076

289-3019

QUICK & RELIABLE OPEN WATER MARINE SERVICES

Liz Samess Interiors

Design, Decorating, Drafting, & More…

Liz Samess Interior Designer

(954) 801-7883 Email: interiordesignbyliz@gmail.com CELL:

SALES

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

JARED FRANK

OWNER

(305) 289-1551 towboatusmarathon.com

305-394-5530 bnbfishing@comcast.net 3900 Overseas Hwy, Marathon FL 33050

Lic# ENG II 305E

Butch and Barbara Hewlett

Marathon, FL 33050

64

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 31, 2020

Effortless hearing, tailor-made for you.

For extraordinary hearing care with world class service, the people of Florida only trust one name: Dr. Michelle of Hear 4 U Audiology.

If you’re struggling to hear clearly, come discover the world of difference Dr. Michelle can make in your life.

Ask about our signature no-contact remote hearing aid fitting program!

Call the location nearest you today and discover the difference we can make in your life!

MIAMI | 17670 NW 78th Avenue #201 | (305) 403-9325 MARATHON | 11399 Overseas Hwy., Ste. 7, in The Exchange Building | (305) 747-7750 KEY WEST | 513 Fleming Street, Suite 11 | (305) 809-6041 hear4uaudiology.com heardrmichelle.com

HOMESTEAD | 151 NW 11th St., Ste. W-301, in Towers Professional Plaza | (305) 809-7663 TAVERNIER | 93911 Overseas Hwy., Ste. 5 (2nd Floor) | (305) 247-8227