Upper Keys Weekly 22-1222

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$434.5 million

The much-anticipated release of “Avatar: The Way of the Water” earned $434.5 million in its global debut, according to the Associated Press.

From their Key Largo home, Karol and Terry Harrelson hold up a copy of Karol’s newly released book. It is available online at Amazon and Barnes and Noble. KELLIE BUTLER

FARRELL/Keys Weekly

THE MIRACLE ON OVERSEAS HIGHWAY

KEY LARGO WOMAN SHARES STORY OF DETERMINATION, HOPE AND UNWAVERING FAITH

KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL www.keysweekly.com

By all accounts, the fact that 63-year-old Karol Harrelson is alive is nothing short of a miracle.

“My heart stopped twice,” she recalled. “They resuscitated me twice, once in the helicopter and once at the hospital.”

Seven years ago, this former nurse’s life changed in a blink of an eye. Harrelson was on her way to Miami at 6 a.m. for her last week of training to become an ICU nurse. She never made it.

“At the green light I looked both ways twice, I always did,” explained Harrelson.

the help of a walker or cane. Her speech was affected, but she can effectively communicate.

Karol believes she is here today because of the never-ending support of her husband.

“Terry’s been my inspiration. He pushes me all the time,” said Karol.

“I would not let her give up. I wouldn’t let her give up at all. I would stay on her,” agreed Terry.

Karol also credits her strong faith in seeing her through the most difficult time of her life.

“I believe in angels,” said Karol. “I know that God was holding me that day. No doubt in my mind,” she said.

Before the accident in 2015, Karol Harrelson was a nurse at Mariner’s Hospital. She loved nursing and helping people who couldn’t help themselves.

CONTRIBUTED

As she turned out of her Avenue A home across from Tradewinds Plaza onto the Overseas Highway, the driver of a large box truck ran the red light, careening into her car, T-boning the vehicle and pushing it into a light post.

“I heard the crash and I was praying that it wasn’t her,” said Karol’s husband of 30 years, Terry Harrelson. He rushed outside. By the time he reached Karol, she was unconscious.

For the next three months, Karol remained in a medically induced coma at Jackson Memorial Hospital and was later transferred to Kindred Hospital in Coral Gables. Karol suffered compound fractures in her arm and leg along with traumatic brain injury. When she awoke from the coma, she had no idea what had happened to her.

What followed was years of rehabilitation. It wasn’t easy for the Mariners Hospital nurse. She was accustomed to being the caregiver, not the patient.

“I was a nurse. I’m supposed to be on the other side of the bed, not in the bed,” she said.

“It was hard times, it was real hard times,” added Terry.

Karol was told she would likely never walk again, but she beat the odds and can get around with

Now this mother of three and grandmother of eight is telling her story of faith and survival. With the help of her sister Lynn, she wrote a book about her experience titled “The Miracle on Overseas Highway.” The book is available online at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

Karol says writing the book was cathartic, a much-needed step toward closure.

“I had to do something with the anger that I had, anger at the guy who hit me,” she said.

According to Karol and Terry, the driver of the box truck that hit Karol left the country. Terry said authorities did not believe he was under the influence of drugs or alcohol. They said he may have been texting or could have fallen asleep at the wheel.

After a year of jumping through legal hoops, Terry and Karol were able to reach a settlement from the driver’s employer. That money was used to cover Karol’s staggering medical expenses.

“The medical bills were way over a million dollars, “ said Terry.

During this interview, Karol and Terry sat hand in hand at their kitchen table. Their bond is undeniable and inspiring. Although they’ve been through more than most people could ever imagine, they are grateful.

“I have pain everywhere, but it’s okay, I’m here,” said Karol. “God saved my life. I know that.”

“She’s my miracle,” added an emotional Terry.

The film rolled out internationally on Dec. 14 and in the U.S. on Dec. 15. Former Islamorada resident Jon Landau helped produce the film alongside director James Cameron.

Santa Claus pays a visit to Islamorada neighborhoods on Dec. 11. His sleigh was hauled by Islamorada Fire Rescue since the reindeer were resting. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

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COMING TO CONSENSUS, DAY TWO

Sanctuary Advisory Council wraps up twoday Restoration Blueprint session

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

Day one of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council (SAC)’s meeting found most council members relatively united in their support, or lack thereof, of proposed regulation changes outlined in the latest draft of the sanctuary’s Restoration Blueprint.

Day two of the same meeting, held on Dec. 14, drew out differences in perspective as commercial and recreational fishermen and guides debated catch-and-release trolling and bait fishing in established Sanctuary Preservation Areas (SPAs), along with best practices for managing, expanding or establishing new wildlife management areas.

While the council reached a summary statement of support or concern for most regulatory changes discussed on day one, preliminary drafts of its recommendations on the aforementioned topics elected instead to relay a spectrum of perspectives.

Proponents of the trolling and bait fishing changes in the Conch Reef, Sombrero, Alligator Reef and Sand Key SPAs argued that making the four areas “fully protected” would reduce mortality of reef fish species, creating a “spillover effect” to surrounding areas as the size and number of protected species inside the SPAs increased. Some stated that no extractive activities should be allowed within SPAs, and that eliminating the only allowed fishing methods within the areas would reduce confusion about where fishing was allowed or not allowed.

They also cited concerns about the increased mortality of weakened fish released after they are caught, as well as concerns about derelict gear and potential impacts to benthic habitats if hooked fish were to seek shelter on the bottom.

But fishermen argued that the existing policies were the result of long-standing agreements between the sanctuary and charter captains and bait companies.

“These concessions were made in good faith,” an early draft of the advisory council’s recommendation document reads. “If this is taken away, (it) would show that the FKMNS could come in and take away any and all previous agreements or concessions and would fuel animosity and a lack of trust.”

Those opposing the changes also stated that the existing practices allow “historically significant traditional fisheries activities” and “thread the needle”

by continuing to allow access only for practices that do not disturb sensitive seafloor habitats.

Some mentioned alternatives to the bait fishing proposal in which the number of bait fishing permits would be capped or become nontransferable, or only fishermen with current FWC permits would be allowed to continue the practice.

Though the balance between No Motor, Idle Speed and No Entry regulations in dozens of Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) throughout the sanctuary remained a hotly contested topic, most fishermen and conservationists agreed that many No Entry zones should be changed to No Motor zones within 300 feet of shorelines, with a 50-foot No Entry zone around areas with currently documented nesting colonies of at-risk bird species. In this proposal, boats would still be allowed to cast from the No Motor zone into the No Entry zone.

Several cited the need for yearly re-evaluation of these WMA zones in accordance with the sanctuary’s new proposed adaptive management procedures to allow for updates with changes in bird populations and observed impacts.

Some council members petitioned the sanctuary to aggressively pursue the addition of artificial reefs, while others urged caution as the sanctuary considers whether these structures are added for the purpose of conservation or extraction of target species.

Many council members showed support for a Keys-specific boating education course, with nearly all agreeing that there is a significant need for better channel marking in sensitive shallow areas. The council discussed challenges in educating the public about rule changes, particularly if information is not clear and obvious on major chartplotting systems used by recreational boaters. All agreed that additional funding for the sanctuary is a high priority, particularly to allow for additional law enforcement.

Armed with the advisory council’s recommendations, sanctuary staff will now consult with stakeholder agencies – including FWC and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, among others – to hear additional recommendations before submitting an updated draft of the Restoration Blueprint for final review at the state and federal levels.

More information about the proposed Restoration Blueprint is at https://floridakeys.noaa.gov/blueprint/.

SHALOM, SYLVIA

Ceremony honors life of former Keys commissioner

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Pastor Kerry Foote wasn’t going to talk about former Monroe County Commissioner Sylvia Murphy in the past tense during a celebration of life on Dec. 19 inside a packed Murray Nelson Government Center auditorium. Everything that made Murphy, from her spirit to her humor and spunk, was still alive.

“It’s not to say goodbye to Sylvia. We say, shalom,” Foote said.

A Keys resident since 1954, Murphy passed away at the age of 86 on Nov. 26. A dedicated public servant, she spent several years with Monroe County Emergency Medical Services and two decades with the Tavernier Fire Department. Desires to advocate for Keys residents led her to run for Monroe County Commission, where she was elected to District 5 in 2006. She represented her constituents in the Upper Keys and throughout the island chain until she retired in 2020.

In the auditorium, family, friends, county officials and the community fondly remembered times they shared with Murphy. With a video depicting Murphy’s life and all the people who crossed her path came stories shared by several people in the crowd. Daughter Billie Jean stood before the 100plus people in attendance to relay just how special Murphy was to her.

“I’m very blessed to have such a wonderful mother, and that I get to share her with all of you. All of you think of her as mom or best friend. But all I can say is she was the best mom in the whole wide world.”

She also looked back on her younger years growing up with her brother, Tommy.

“If we skinned our knees or

elbows, she’d say, ‘Are you bleeding?’ We’d say ‘no.’ She’d say ‘Is your head on your shoulders?’ We’d say ‘yes.’ She’d say, ‘Then keep on going,’” she said.

Stephanie Scuderi said Murphy never pushed her into politics. But she encouraged her to pursue community service and told her to join an affordable housing advisory committee.

“She was a complete inspiration and always had a jovial attitude,” she said. “Monroe County is a better county because of Sylvia Murphy.”

County Administrator Roman Gastesi was hired in May 2008, during Murphy’s time on the county commission. Gastesi told the crowd that Murphy didn’t vote for him to take the position, but another candidate who had many years in the county. It was something Gastesi reminded Murphy about at times as he smiled.

“Once she got to know you and supported you, boy, was she behind you 100% of the time,” he said.

Foote, who officiated the ceremony, said he was blessed to have Murphy as a member of Burton Memorial United Methodist Church in Tavernier. In Foote’s office hangs something special that Murphy bestowed on him — the Honorary Conch.

“Usually with most celebrations of life, I start with reading the obituary of the person with whom we celebrate or read a written statement,” Foote said. “That statement lists all the accomplishments and impacts that person has on society. If that's what I was going to do today, we’d be here a long, long time.”

Foote said Murphy’s will came with a statement on how she wanted to be remembered. She loved her family. She enjoyed every moment living in Tavernier since 1954. And her good life was spent with family, friends and her church.

A memorial for Sylvia Murphy sits on the stage inside the Murray Nelson Government Center for a celebration of life ceremony. CONTRIBUTED

By:

THE SCOREBOARD

Key West Girls Soccer Silver Palms 12/14 W, 6-0

Key West Girls Basketball Pace 12/14 L, 52-18

Coral Shores Girls Soccer Marathon 12/15 W, 6-0

Marathon Boys Soccer SLAM Academy 12/15 L, 0-4

Key West Girls Basketball St. Cloud 12/16 L, 69-21

Key West Boys Soccer Ransom 12/16 L, 4-0

Key West Girls Soccer Orangewood Christian 12/16 L, 4-2

Key West Boys Basketball Keys Gate 12/17 L, 84-57

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

Date

1/3

1/4

1/4

Marathon Boys Basketball @ Silver Palms 4 p.m.

Coral Shores Weightlifting Marathon 3:30 p.m.

Coral Shores Boys Soccer @ Gulliver Prep 4 p.m.

1/4 Marathon Boys Soccer Key West 6 p.m.

1/4 Marathon Boys Basketball Palmer 4 p.m.

1/5 Marathon Girls Soccer @ Westwood 4 p.m.

1/5

1/6

1/6

1/6

Coral Shores Boys Basketball @ Oxbridge Academy 6 p.m.

Coral Shores & Key West Wrestling Somerset Scuffle @ Pembroke Pines All Day

Coral Shores Girls Basketball Marathon 4 p.m.

Coral Shores Boys Soccer Westminster 6 p.m.

1/6 Marathon Girls Soccer Coral Shores 6 p.m. 1/6 Key West Girls Soccer @ South FL HEAT 4 p.m. 1/6 Marathon Boys Basketball Boca Raton 6 p.m. 1/6 Key West Boys Basketball South Broward 7:30 p.m. 1/6 Marathon Boys Soccer Country Day 4 p.m.

Key West’s Ralph Riche didn’t take much time to transition from dominating on the gridiron to dominating on the mats. The multisport athlete has honed his skills and is becoming a fearsome rival across South Florida.

“He has developed his offense since last season and is scoring early in his matches,” explained Conchs head coach Chaz Jimenez. The early scoring is often a moot point, however. Riche’s matches often end in pins, including three in the Key West Invitational, where he placed fourth among a pool of the top wrestlers in Florida. Riche won second place in the H-Town Throwdown tournament on Dec. 3 and went 5-0 in his matches last week.

— Chaz Jimenez, Conchs wrestling coach.

The statistics he has accomplished already are impressive by themselves, but in a few weeks, the command he holds over his opponents will likely increase. Riche is currently wrestling up a weight class and will move back down to the 220-pound category when teammate Andre Otto cuts to 285 pounds. Wrestling opponents more than 60 pounds heavier is a feat in itself, but having a high rate of success in that situation makes Ralph Riche this week’s Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

Tracy and Sean McDonald

“He’s dominating at a heavier weight class and can’t wait to see what he will do when he’s at 220.”

Key West High School, Junior Wrestling

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

CORAL SHORES AND MARATHON TRADE WINS IN PREP BASKETBALL

oral Shores traveled to Marathon on Dec. 15 for a county matchup in boys and girls basket-

The Lady Fins won the girls game 54-38. Elena Eubank had the hot hand for Marathon, scoring 17 points in the game, with teammate Abrianna Marshall adding 14 before retiring to the bench to allow the younger players to gain some valuable playing time. Brooke Mandozzi led the scoring for the Lady ’Canes with 18 plus 4 steals. Grace Leffler had 9 points with 7 rebounds and 3

Marathon’s girls are 3-6 so far this season and play again Thursday, Jan. 5 at NSU University School in Fort Lauderdale. The Lady ’Canes are 4-3 and will have a chance at redemption in their rematch with Marathon in Tavernier on Friday, Jan. 6.

Key West’s girls are looking for their first win this season. The young team will face Coral Shores in their next game on Tuesday, Jan. 10 at home.

In the boys Marathon-Coral Shores game, it would be the Hurricanes bringing home the win as the Upper Keys squad bested Marathon 64-28. Matt St. Aubin had 20 points including 3 3-point baskets. Isaac Holmes scored 17 points and added 6 steals, disrupting the Dolphins’ offense. Eddy Espinosa had 8 assists, 5 rebounds and 3 steals for the night. Marathon’s Xavier Grant was good for 13 points in the loss.

The 6-2 Hurricanes play a series of out-of-state teams over the holiday break in Orlando, then resume their regular opponents on Thursday, Jan. 5 at Oxbridge Academy. The 2-4 Dolphins tip off again against Palmer Trinity at home on Wednesday, Jan.

Photos by BARRY GAUKEL/ Keys Weekly. See more game photos at shadypalmphotography.com

1-5 Conchs play Gig Harbor, a team out of Washington State, on Thursday, Dec. 29, then ring in their new year on Saturday, Jan. 7 at home against Boca Raton.

By:

PREP

Coral Shores traveled to Marathon on Dec. 14 to compete in the final weightlifting meet of 2022. Mikkel Ross was the overall top lifter – calculated with a formula that takes into account each athlete’s weight class and top lifts – in both Olympic and Traditional scoring. Her total lifts of 250 pounds also won her the top spot in the 129 pound weight class. Teammate Justice Lee Isom’s 295 pound total was second among all lifters by the formula and first in her 183 pound class. Coral Shores’ Rachel Rusch won the 110 pound class with 190 total pounds lifted, earning third place among all lifters.

Marathon won the meet, scoring 100 points to Coral Shores’ 53 in Traditional scoring, which totals a lifter’s bench press along with the clean and jerk lift. The ’Canes narrowed the gap in Olympic scoring but still fell short to the Fins 91-58. Olympic scoring totals a lifter’s best clean and jerk attempt with her best snatch lift.

Both teams will measure their gains from the holiday break when they meet again on Wednesday, Jan. 4 at Coral Shores.

Photos by RILEY McDONALD/Contributed

Prep soccer has reached the halfway point of the season, and it is looking good for Monroe County this year. All six teams can claim a winning record as they take a two-week hiatus for the holiday season. Key West’s girls had a win and a loss last week. The Lady Conchs beat Somerset Silver Palms 6-0 on Dec. 14 with a hat trick from Kathryn Smith, 2 goals from Victoria Daley-Willy and 1 from Madison Kilduff. On Dec. 16 they lost 4-2 to Orangewood Christian, putting them at 7-3 for the first half of the season. The Lady Conchs play again Friday, Jan. 6 on the road against South Florida HEAT.

Marathon started the week with a win against Cushman on Dec. 13, winning 8-0 against the Spartans. Rain Banks and Jordan MacDonald each had a hat trick. Riley McDonald and Reese Elwell had a goal each in the win. Two days later, they headed to Coral Shores for a rescheduled matchup, losing 6-0. Marathon returns from the holiday break to play Westwood Christinan in Miami on Wednesday, Jan. 4 then Coral Shores at home on Thursday, Jan. 5. They are 5-3 at the halfway point of the season.

Coral Shores made the most of its only game the week prior to the holiday break, beating Marathon at home 6-0. Sophomore Sofia Jans led the scoring with 2 goals and an assist. Izzy Malloggi, Joe Eysenbach, Ashley Jans and Delaney Donnelley each scored 1 in the match. Katelyn Gilman and Jessie Liddell combined in goal for six saves, earning a shutout for the ’Canes. Coral Shores is currently 5-2 for the season. Their next game will be against Marathon again, this time on Dolphin turf.

In boys soccer, Key West played Ransom Everglades on Dec. 16 in Miami, losing 4-0 against the Raiders. They are 6-2-1 for the first half of the season and open their 2023 drive on Jan. 4 at Marathon.

Marathon won a mercy rule victory against Cushman on Dec. 13 at home. Henry Herrera and Oscar Cardona scored 2 goals each in the match and teammates Jayden Rosete, Gabriel Hernandez, Juan Vasquez, and Sebastian Stasiewicz each added 1. On Dec. 15 the Dolphins lost to SLAM in a 4-0 road game. The 6-5 Fins take on Key West at home Wednesday, Jan. 4 in their next match.

Coral Shores kept their first half winning record intact last week despite a loss. The 4-3 Hurricanes lost their Dec. 15 game against St. Brendan 5-1. They play again on Wednesday, Jan. 4 when they take on Gulliver Prep on the road.

Tracy and Sean McDonald

BASKETBALL

Mackenzie Budi takes a shot on goal against Cushman on Dec. 13. TRACY

Mikkel

Marquisha Abraham prepares for her lift.

Marathon’s Laris-

Prieto attempts a lift at the Dec. 14 home meet.

In October 1993, Robert Brown turned to running while in the middle of a divorce.

"I thought to myself, ‘I better work on this package and get in shape so that if I'm going to meet somebody else, at least I'm not all out of shape and sloppy,’" said the 66-year-old with a chuckle.

What followed over the next 29 years was a passion that became a way of life, with Brown averaging one race every three weeks.

"I've run 10 marathons, I ran the Boston Marathon, 29 half marathons, just a large assortment of different distances," explained Brown.

On Dec. 10, Brown reached a milestone, completing his 500th race. The race was a 5K out of Postcard Inn called the Rumrunner Run. As Robert ran, proud family members waited at the finish line.

Brown's 31-year-old daughter, Dani Brown, flew in from Napa, California to cheer her dad on.

"I would have traveled across the globe to see that moment," gushed Dani Brown.

Also present for the monumental accomplishment: Brown's mother Virginia Klassen and his sister, Vickie Clapper.

RUN ROBERT RUN

"He set himself a goal years ago and I always knew he would meet the goal," said Klassen.

"It's an amazing accomplishment, to say the least," added Clapper.

Earlier this month, Brown's mother and sister flew in from Arizona and California for a planned one-week visit. It just so happened their stay coincided with Brown's crowning achievement.

"I invited them out maybe six months ago, not knowing that this was going to be my 500th race.

They were here and that made it special," said Brown.

The day of Brown's 500th race also happened to fall on what would have been the birthday of his late sister. The two were extremely close. She passed away suddenly of heart failure seven years ago.

"It was every bit of the universe saying ‘Here, your family is together, this is the time, this is the place,’" said daughter Dani Brown.

Reaching this lofty goal has come with its fair share of challenges. Brown suffers from rheumatoid arthritis and has a pacemaker. But he always pushed forward.

"It's a lifestyle. It's who you are if you're a runner; that's what you do. You don't stop," said Brown.

Brown moved to Lower Matecumbe from California in 2019 after retiring from a career with the state of California collecting and allocating sales tax.

He came to the Keys for a vacation and fell in love with the island chain and also with

a woman he met at the Big Chill during the 4th of July in 2019. She quickly became his running partner and biggest fan.

"So we started doing it together and we've been doing it ever since," said girlfriend Christina Cosme.

Cosme's first race with Brown was in Key West three years ago. The 53-year-old is in good shape, a cross fitter; still, the run was not easy.

"When we finished, I was like ‘I think I lost a lung or something.’ But we made it and after that I thought ‘I can do this,’" said Cosme with a laugh.

Cosme has already completed 50 races with her boyfriend all around the country.

"Every time we plan a trip, it's like, ‘okay, we're going to run one here,’" said Cosme.

Inside Brown's home in Lower Matecumbe, hundreds of race medals line the wall. They are separated by race distances; 5Ks, 10Ks, half marathons and 10 full marathons.

Brown has also saved every runner's bib from all 500 races. On the back of every bib he has jotted down memories of that event.

"He's the best role model any child could ever ask for," said Dani.

For Brown and his girlfriend, running is a way of life; a ritual that involves very early mornings followed by a stop at Denny's after the completion of each race.

"Because of running, I've had some great moments," said Brown.

For Christmas, Cosme plans to give her boyfriend a tattoo to add to his collection on his left arm. This one will read 500 plus, "because we're not going to stop, we're just going to slow down a little," she said.

Brown has no intention of resting on his laurels. Next up, the Reindeer Run 5K at Ocean Reef on Tuesday, Dec. 27.

"Nothing's going to stop him, nothing,” said Dani Brown. “The only thing that is going to stop him is him being six feet under, he loves this so much, this is truly the love of his life."

Islamorada man reaches milestone, completing his 500th race

Robert Brown stands in front of the hundreds of medals he's won over the last 29 years. The Islamorada resident recently completed his 500th race. KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL/Keys Weekly

Robert Brown is all smiles as he runs his 500th race in Islamorada on Dec. 10. CONTRIBUTED

Robert Brown holds up a medal and race bib from the Islamorada Rumrunner Run on Dec. 10. Next to Robert are his sister, Vickie Clapper, mother Virginia Klassen, girlfriend Christina Cosme and Cosme's son Isaiah. KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL/Keys Weekly

KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL www.keysweekly.com

A CREEKNAMING CONUNDRUM

Surveyor the first to pen Black Caesar’s name in record

Cartographer Bernard Romans named the water feature flowing between Old Rhodes and Elliott Key Black Caesars Creek. The choice was made after the Spanish territory of La Florida was deeded to the English with the signing of the 1763 Treaty of Paris.

The document signified the end of the French and Indian War. After taking possession, the English divided the territory into two parts. West Florida became all of the area west of the Apalachicola River. East Florida was everything east of the river and included the peninsula and the Florida Keys.

The government appointed Romans the deputy surveyor for the territory’s Southern District. Between 1770 and 1771, Romans surveyed the waters surrounding South Florida and the Florida Keys. The resulting effort, published in 1774, was called “Maps of East and West Florida.” Why did he choose the unusual name for the creek flowing between Old Rhodes and Elliott Keys? It is a really good question.

According to local legends, the creek is named after the infamous pirate rooted in Florida Keys lore who is said to have lorded over the Straits of Florida from his Elliott Key lair for a decade. After abandoning Elliott Key, the pirate joined forces with Captain Edward Teach, better known as Blackbeard, and allegedly became one of his trusted lieutenants.

The big problem with this version of the Black Caesar story, and there

De Mayne Chart of 1821 showing Black Sarah’s Creek. CONTRIBUTED

are many stories about the pirate, is that a pirate by that name does not exist in the historical record. He certainly was never one of Blackbeard’s lieutenants, trusted or otherwise. Coincidentally, a black “pirate” named Caesar had the misfortune of being with Blackbeard the day his sloop Adventure was attacked by British Navy forces and the fearsome pirate was beheaded.

In a book published just six years after Blackbeard’s violent death, information about Caesar, who was aboard the Adventure that fateful day, was shared. The book, “A General History of the Pyrates,” written by Captain Charles Johnson (though some feel it was written by the writer Daniel Defoe of “Robinson Crusoe” fame), stated: “Teach had little or no Hopes of escaping, and therefore had posted a resolute Fellow, a Negro, whom he had bred up, with a lighted Match, in the Powder-Room, with Commands to blow up when he should give him Orders, which was as soon as the Lieutenant and his Man could have entered, that so he might have destroy’d his Conquerors: and when the Negro found how it went with Black-beard, he could hardly be perswaded from the rash Action by two Prisoners that were in the Hold of the Sloop.”

After the event aboard Blackbeard’s Adventure, British forces took Caesar into custody. According to the

FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI

King’s records, the man identified as Caesar was labeled a Common Sailor and a “Common Sailor” is a term never attributed to a pirate who was, by every account, larger-thanlife, Herculean in stature, and both a bloody and ruthless practitioner of his trade.

This kind of name bastardization is frequent everywhere, probably, and certainly when it comes to the history of the names of islands and other features in the Florida Keys.

James Grant Forbes’ “Sketches Historical and Topographical of The Floridas; more particularly of East Florida,” published by C.S. Van Winkle in 1821, identified the same feature as Black Sarah’s Creek. The De Mayne Chart, also published in 1821, identified the pass as Black Sarah’s Creek.

An author, speaker, Florida Keys historian and Honorary Conch. His latest book, “Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli, Volume 1,” shares fascinating glimpses into the rich and sometimes surprising histories of the Florida Keys.

One of the extraordinary aspects of the legendary story of Black Caesar is that his name, as it has been associated with a pirate who may or may not have ever wrought his piratical intentions from an Elliott Key lair or anywhere else in Florida for that matter, fails to be recorded in a single contemporary document prior to the publishing of Romans’ “Maps of East and West Florida” in 1774.

It could be that Romans simply misheard or miswrote another local name for the creek, which might explain why he appears to be the first person ever to put the name in print.

Some of the wreckers working the reef line in the early 19th century, too, referred to the creek as Black Sarah’s, which only adds to the conundrum involving the name. It is interesting that Black Caesar and Black Sarah practically rhyme. Maybe Bernard Romans heard the name Black Sarah when surveying the area, and he decided to jazz up the name by changing it to Black Caesar. Before he began surveying the Southern District, a little pirate blood had flowed through his veins.

Maybe Romans just plain invented the name Black Caesar when he applied the identifier to the creek on his map. And maybe that decision gave birth to the idea of a pirate named Black Caesar and the resulting collection of legendary stories about him that have been stitched into the fabric of Florida Keys history – stories that come with no supporting documentation.

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

STATE’S PROPERTY INSURANCE REFORM NOT PERFECT

BILL DIDN’T HARM RATES IN THE KEYS, MOONEY SAYS

you when you’re most vulnerable as your roof’s gone and you’re feeling like the world’s coming to an end,” he said. “They tell people ‘Let me show you how I can make this better.’ The person signs over the benefits and that person disappears.”

Legislation also addressed growing issues with the state’s insurer of last resort, the nonprofit Citizens. Playing a critical role in Florida’s property insurance marketplace, Citizens provides various types of property insurance to homeowners and businesses who are in good faith and entitled to coverage, but can’t find it in the private market.

More property owners have flocked to Citizens for coverage in recent years. In June 2020, roughly 474,000 were insured through Citizens. But due to issues facing the insurance market in recent times, Citizens policies could hit 1.6 million by 2023.

Per new legislation, Citizens won’t renew policies if a policyholder is offered coverage from a private insurer that’s within 20% of their current premium.

SHERIFF’S CAPTAIN GRADUATES FROM FBI NATIONAL ACADEMY

Aspecial session in Tallahassee seeking property insurance reform culminated with the signing of a bill by Gov. Ron DeSantis on Dec. 16 in Fort Myers. While some say the bill enacts measures not seen in recent history, others believe there’s still more to accomplish to keep rates from further spiking.

Proposals debated in committee and on the floor of the Florida House and Senate combatted one larger issue facing the industry in lawsuits, which Republican supporters reiterated during the session. Legislation did away with one-way attorney fees, which force property insurers to pay attorney fees when policyholders’ lawsuits are successful over a claim. The bill also ended the state’s assignment of benefits laws, which allowed property owners to sign over their claims to contractors to handle with insurance companies.

DeSantis, in a press conference, acknowledged that the state had to do something to decrease the legal costs for insurers. He noted that Florida’s property insurance market was “very good for lawyers.” Backers of the property insurance bill hammered a statistic that, of the roughly 7% of nationwide claims, 76% of homeowners’ lawsuits in the U.S. were filed in Florida.

“It’s made a lot of people very, very rich. But the question is, is that in your best interest to have a situation like that?” DeSantis said.

Not only has the state seen six insurers go insolvent this year, but the state has also written two consecutive years of net underwriting losses that exceed $1 billion.

State Rep. Jim Mooney was one of 84 members in the House who backed the bill. He applauded a component of the bill that addressed some issues with the assignment of benefits.

“There are people who come in within hours of a storm being over. They’re predatory and catch

Mel Montagne, president of Fair Insurance Rates in Monroe (FIRM), said the state is trying to operate Citizens as a normal insurance company, when it’s a state-owned nonprofit that’s paid by Florida taxpayers that should only provide wind coverage and nothing more.

“My whole contention with Citizens for years has been why have you deviated from the prime directive? It was created to provide wind coverage in Monroe County. Nowhere in this legislation gets Citizens back to what it was created for.”

More than 9,000 homeowners in Monroe County have a wind-only policy through Citizens, and more than 1,000 have a multi-peril policy.

Mooney said Citizens’ current glidepath cap of 1% increases to 15% in 2026 and subsequent years remain the same for Monroe. Local officials are seeking support for legislation in the 2023 session that provides an exemption from the annual rate increase and maintains a 10% rate cap. County officials are seeking help from the state to lower premiums and annual rate increases by Citizens in recognition of the county’s strong building codes and housing affordability issues.

Mooney said secondary homeowners who have long-term leases with tenants are protected from any further increase. As for a new requirement that condo owners need flood insurance, Mooney said that issue will likely be discussed during the regular legislative session in 2023. He also said the county needs more competitive property insurance options.

“Was the legislation the perfect fix? No. But it’s not the end of discussion by any imagination,” Mooney said.

Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Capt. Derek Paul recently graduated from the 284th session of the FBI National Academy, becoming the eighth Sheriff’s Office member to complete this prestigious program.

“I’m proud of Capt. Paul for all he has accomplished and what he continues to do in service of the members of this great community,” said Sheriff Rick Ramsay.

Paul began his career with the Sheriff’s Office in July 1997 as a Bureau of Corrections deputy at the Key West jail. In 2001, he transferred to the Marathon District as a road patrol deputy. Capt. Paul is currently assigned to the Village of Islamorada as the district commander.

The graduation took place at the National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. Nationally, fewer than 1% of law enforcement officers have the opportunity to attend the program.

Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers 10 weeks of advanced communication, leadership and fitness training. Participants must have proven records as professionals within their agencies to attend. On average, these officers have 21 years of law enforcement experience and usually return to their agencies to serve in executive-level positions.

Gov. Ron DeSantis signs a bill that makes several reforms to the state’s property insurance industry on Dec. 16 in Fort Myers. GOVERNOR’S OFFICE/Contrib-

Monroe County Sheriff’s Capt. Derek Paul graduates from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. MCSO/Contributed

KEYS KIDS SHARE WISHES WITH SANTA

Lists range from playsets, cars to a remote alligator

Keys Weekly recently stopped by Treasure Village Montessori to see what students in pre-kindergarten and kindergarten were placing on their Christmas wish lists. It’s well known that tampering with mail is a federal offense, but thankfully, due to special partnerships with TVM and the North Pole Postal Service (NPPS), Keys Weekly was able to secure exclusive coverage of a couple Keys kids’ Christmas wishes.

Dear Santa, I want a 10-foot Alligator with a remote and a wig from outer space. Love, Oskar White

NORTH

SANT A CLAU

Dear Santa, I really want a green lightsaber. Love, Antonio Riccio

Dear Santa, I want an electric boat that goes on water. Love, Mason Ramos-Santos

Dear Santa, I want my own pretend kitchen. Love, Emma Ray

Dear Santa, I really want a flamingo. Love, Sadie Stanczyk

Dear Santa, I want a sweater that says “I love my mom and dad.” Love, Emma Jacobs

I really want a Barbie doll playset.

I really want a magic globe and a Harry Potter playset. Love, Ava Casanava

I really want a lot of toys. Love, Bryson Hampson

Dear Santa, Please bring me a you flying Love, Audrey Dibble

Dear Santa, I want Transformers please! Love, Emmanuel Morales

Dear Santa, I want a mermaid, a pony and a lot more stuff. Love, Aria Magee

a

Dear Santa, I would like a blue car for Christmas please! Love, William Hofstetter

Dear Santa, I really want an electric car! Love, Harper Bennett

Dear Santa, I want my own pretty hair dye. Love, Riley Carver

Dear Santa, I want a monster truck. Love Brayden Monvil

Dear Santa, I would like a bigger Christmas tree! Love, Alabama Robert

Dear Santa, I want pool toys, a Barbie dream house and a crying baby.

Love, Alanya Carlson I want a 10 foot alligator with a remote control. Love, Liam Hurley

Dear Santa, I want a lump of coal! Love, Camden Joyce Santa, Morales

MESSAGE FROM THE SHERIFF

I want to wish everyone a happy holiday season and thank you all for your partnerships. I couldn’t ask for better community support and friendships that I have enjoyed over the years from Ocean Reef to Key West and everywhere in between. It continues to be a privilege and an honor to serve as your Sheriff.

I’m always reminded this time of year of those partnerships and friendships, which are so important to me both professionally and personally. We really couldn’t do what we do here at the Sheriff’s Office without you: whether it’s a crime tip, assisting with a clean-up along U.S. 1, or helping a neighbor in need. Thank you.

I also want to remind everyone to reduce some stress this holiday season and give yourself extra time while traveling on U.S. 1. We typically see a large increase in the amount of traffic right after Christmas and through New Year’s Day.

Do yourself a favor: prepare and expect some delays.

Thank you again and Happy Holidays!

Monroe County Sheriff, Rick Ramsay

YOUNG REPUBLICANS CLUB COLLECTS TOYS FOR WESLEY HOUSE

Members of the Florida Keys Young Republicans gathered with local elected officials for a meet-andgreet and toy drive for Wesley House on Dec. 8 at Capt. Craig’s in Tavernier. Attendees had the opportunity to speak with Tax Collector Sam Steele, John Dick, school board member, county commissioners Michelle Coldiron and Holly Merrill Raschein and state Rep. Jim Mooney. It culminated with a sit-down and question-and-answer session with the representatives and pictures in front of the many toys gathered to help make a kid’s Christmas a little brighter. CONTRIBUTED

A Lignumvitae Christmas Story

Dec. 10 proved to be an exemplary, perfect day in the fabulous Florida Keys.

The evening before, after dropping off my long-time friend at the airport, I headed south. My friend came to Key Largo from Italy to spend a couple weeks prior to going to Colombia for Christmas with her mother. My head was busy with traffic, the airport, her visit and her return in January. But when I was coming off the bridge, I somehow remembered to pick up a newspaper.

The Lignumvitae Christmas event was advertised in the paper for Dec. 3. A little voice muttered in my head: You know you’ve always wanted to go there and see the house and grounds. Don’t you think after living here for 30-plus years, you should go? I decided I’d head south Saturday morning, stopping by Windley Key for a ticket en route.

Starting off early, the stop at Windley Key proved futile. They were closed and their poster noted you could have only purchased the tickets during their hours on Monday through Thursday. I decided to continue and perhaps find tickets for sale at Robbie’s.

After arriving, I wandered around seeking people who might have some information about this yearly occurrence. I rounded a corner on the boat dock and a woman caught

my eye, asking if I was looking for the Lignumvitae tour. I told her I’d hoped to be able to get there but still needed a ticket, if she’d know who to ask. She asked me to wait a moment, as she finished a conversation. I explained my stop at Windley Key, but it wasn’t fruitful. Don’t you know she reached in her pocket and pulled out a ticket, handing it to me. She said, “My grandson was to come today, but he’s home sick, so I happen to have an extra ticket.” I was so excited to be able to get in on this special celebration. No payment would be accepted for the ticket and I truly was delighted to have been in the right place at the right time.

Years earlier, I recall heading to Marathon on the day of this event, probably to shop for Christmas. I recall how many cars would park at the boat landing by the bridge, in order to hitch a ride out to Lignumvitae Key for this exact occasion. From what I understood about the event, people would come in and out via boat all day long, not unlike the Indian Key Day that used to be held yearly back then too.

This unique festivity is an educational glimpse into a world that we sincerely hope to maintain for future generations, and to educate our locals on the kind of nature we have within the Florida Keys.

The 10-minute boat ride to the island was a bumpy one, but the wind also made it a lovely day to tour the trail in the woods by the house. We immediately had a tour guide, Chris, who was ready to impart all he knew. I quickly

learned my benefactors were not new to this venue or even many of the state parks in all of the United States. Bo and Breny Johnson and their daughter, Abigail, were well known by the park employees. All teachers knew more about this great place than most, having previously visited with Russ & Charlotte Neidhauk, the caretakers of Lignumvitae grounds from 1952 until 1972.

Three Lignumvitae trees were situated near the beginning of the tour that are at least 20 years old, but no higher than 4 feet. We were fortunate to have the president of the Fort Lauderdale Orchid Society touring with our group, as well as another park ranger, Dan, from Long Key State Park, providing interesting questions and comments. The Swamp Band played Christmas songs, and lime-aid and snacks were much appreciated after the trail tour. There was plenty of information to be gained that day and a strong feeling of a love for this great island that we may very well take for granted when we pass it on any other day.

I’m so grateful to Bo, Breny, Abigail and her son for my ticket. I also thank the park rangers, boat drivers and all who helped plan the event. Thank you all for a stellar Holiday Celebration at Lignumvitae Key.

— Suzanne Manifold Key Largo

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

VISUALIZING SANTA

BUSHY- BEARDED MAN IN RED EVOLVED TO AN ICON

It’s that time of the year when holiday lights dress area homes and businesses. In some yards sit a number of inflatable decorations. We see the imagery all around us, so it’s easy to get used to it and perhaps ignore it. Santa’s image is plastered up everywhere during Christmastime. We see Santa Claus doing all kinds of things: Riding a motorcycle, vacationing in his Hawaiian shirt and dancing. Santa is beyond an icon. As an artist, I always found it interesting how some things become legendary while others fall out of fashion. Just how did the man in red become so iconic? Here’s a deeper dive into the iconography of Santa. St. Nicholas is where the lore of Santa Claus begins. He was born in the third century A.D. in the village of Patara, which at the time was Greek but is part of modern-day Turkey. He was a devout Christian and became well-known for his kindness, generosity and love of children. He was a bishop at a time when the Romans were persecuting Christians. He died on Dec. 6 in 343 A.D. All the stories of Nicholas showcase him as a protector and helper of those in need.

Over the centuries, his legend would grow. St. Nicholas seemed to always have a large following. In 1492, Christopher Columbus named a Haitian port after St. Nicholas. Jacksonville’s St. Nicholas neighborhood was originally named by Spanish settlers. While the British had St. George, the Americans of the Revolution invoked St. Nicholas as protector. He was named patron saint of New York and the Historical Society. While many European countries celebrated St. Nicholas, he became more like the icon we know today in the U.S. around

1809. Washington Irving wrote “Knickerbocker’s History of New York,” and in this he referred to a Dutch burgher elfin with a clay pipe, a jolly St. Nicholas.

WILLIAM DEPAULA

is an artist, designer and gemologist who believes in the power of art.

The 1821 publication “The Children’s Friend” added more to the St. Nicholas lore. In the book he was called Sante Claus, who rode around on a sleigh with flying reindeer and came from, you guessed it, the North Pole. Sante would reward the nice and punish the naughty. The book also features the first time that Sante Claus came on Christmas Eve instead of Dec. 6. Amazingly, this book’s author and illustrator are not known.

The part you all have been waiting for: In 1823, “The Night Before Christmas” – back then known as “A Visit from St. Nicholas” – was published. The poem describes the appearance of St. Nicholas, or rather the round-shaped, clay-pipesmoking, old bearded elf. There is also debate on the true author of the poem: Is it Clement Clarke Moore or Henry Livingston Jr.? Whoever the author was, the poem had a huge impact on the future of Christmas tradition.

Thomas Nast created drawings and images of Santa with a flowing beard and fur clothing. Nast’s illustration featured a Santa who loved his clay pipe and was loyal to the Union and President Lincoln during the Civil War. Nast’s Santa was a large influence on the population and showed us how the elven Santa Claus should look.

Famous illustrators such as Norman Rockwell and N.C. Wyeth tweaked the vision of Santa Claus. In 1930, an advertising campaign would cement the look of Santa Claus. The artist was Haddon Sundblom and he painted 35 years’ worth of Santas for the Coca Cola Company. The illustrators reimagined Santa back into a man, no longer an elf, but a full-fledged icon.

St. Nicholas has come a long way. Starting with an extraordinary life and ultimately attaining sainthood centuries later, St. Nicholas was a remarkable person who was a protector and giver. His generosity was legendary, and for many centuries people admired him and tried to emulate him. He became a symbol so powerful and enduring that the legend grew and evolved. Santa Claus, a man or elf of his time, is adaptable for each time period, giving hope to those who need it the most.

An illustration by William DePaula depicts Santa and St. Nicholas on a playing card. WILLIAM DEPAULA/Contributed

LOCAL FITNESS COACH INSPIRES

Staying healthy during the holiday season can be a challenge for any age.

The Keys Weekly recently sat down with Gisela Donahue, fitness coach and owner of Inspire Fitness, to learn more about her journey and some tips on how to stay healthy and prepare for 2023.

We lived in Naples since 2017 before moving here in 2021. Before, we lived in Southern Vermont; however, I am originally from Cape Town, South Africa. My husband, Paul, is from Boston. He was part of a ski restaurant group, and after our first child, Kylie, we decided to relocate south for the warmer weather.

When I was in Naples, I worked with a lot of country clubs, and I ended up loving it. My client’s goals went from the typical “I want to lose 10 pounds” to “I want to function, get up the stairs, and enjoy life.” It grew another whole side of my brain. In the Keys, I have a nice combination of both types of goals.

Since it’s become more of a love for health and fitness than “I lost 10 pounds,” I find I connect with a lot more people as they can see the value of the work they are putting in. I often hear the feedback: “We went on vacation, and I could lift my own suitcases. I went to the beach with my grandkids, and I could keep up.”

If it’s about daily living, then you want to do it, and you do it with a different attitude. It’s a whole other way of thinking. Fitness is a lifestyle; it’s a journey. And it’s not just for the short term; it’s a lifetime.

My business is mainly one-on-one, and I have worked with clients ages 16 to 93. I have also done groups before. The group setup can motivate clients. I originally had a studio at Cirque Salon until September, but now I have created a studio at my house. I also have virtual clients and some clients I drive to see. The virtual also works if people are traveling or snowbirds and want to stay fit.

MELINDA VAN FLEET www.keysweekly.com

GETTING A JUMP ON THE HEALTH GOALS BEFORE THE NEW YEAR AND OTHER TIPS

The main personal training focuses on strength and balance. Also, focusing on having a strong core to rely on. It doesn’t need to be heavy weights. The “old mentality” is women didn’t understand the benefit of weights and primarily did aerobic exercise.

Therefore, we work with a variety of exercise equipment such as smaller dumbbells, resistance bands, spinning bike, Pilates exercises and equipment, water rower machine and short burst of heart rate, AKA “hit” exercises. I adjust to what my client needs as I like to get to know them and what works for them.

Getting your core and glutes strong is essential. However, if there is an exercise someone hates, like burpees, I will suggest another exercise that still targets the area. However, some clients come to love it.

For me, exercise helps clear my head; I love it. But you still have to find the part in your brain where you think it’s important to your life. I truly don’t feel like I work — I am obnoxiously in love with what I do.

Part of my education is on nutrition. I don’t push nutrition, but I am there for them if they wish for my help. I have found keeping it simple has worked for me. Portion size and understanding what food categories foods fall in. I learned what is good for my body and roughly what I should take in.

How did I get started?

All my life, I was athletic. Then, in my mid-20s, I walked a long path of infertility. I gained a lot of weight during that time. Once Kylie was born, we went to the mall together. I went to walk the stairs at the mall and had to stop twice to catch my breath. I was only 30. So, I had gotten so lost in my journey toward becoming a mom that I hadn’t taken care of myself. It was a turning point.

Why do we wait for Jan. 1? People like to procrastinate, so they like to have a future date. But I say start today. You don’t know what lies ahead, so why not start today? The right to indulge over the top. Portion size, learn to stop, and don’t carry it past the holidays. Don’t think that makes you feel gross after. If your stomach feels bloated and sore afterward, why eat it?

When I think of my holiday meal, I pick my portion, my veg, but I don’t go up for seconds or thirds. Have your dessert and your glass of wine. Pick what you love, portion size, and be done.

Top tips to help you:

1. Practice self-control and responsibility, but don’t deprive yourself.

2. Stay active — go on a family walk. I work with clients to get them to love being active, so it lasts. There are going to be times when it’s hard and tough to work through an exercise, but then they say, “I just did that!”

Just give me 50 minutes, some water bottles, and a chair, and I can get you sweating.

Inspire Fitness’s hours are Monday thru Friday. Follow on IG @inspirefitnessfl and contact for a consultation and pricing 802-558-7982.

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SANTA

anta and Mrs. Claus hopped on the sleigh for the annual ride through Islamorada neighborhoods on Dec. 11. The sleigh, hauled by Fire Chief Terry Abel’s truck, began on Lower Matecumbe. It headed north through various streets where kids and families eagerly awaited Santa’s arrival. Families had the chance to meet with Mrs. Claus and get pictures with Santa. Residents also donated unwrapped toys as part of the annual U.S. Marines Toys for Tots drive.

The annual Santa ride is sponsored by the Islamorada Firefighters Benevolent Association and Islamorada Fire Rescue.

— Keys Weekly staff report

1. Mom Michelle Bennett and daughter Harper get a photo with Santa.

2. Bee Street residents get their cameras out for Santa’s arrival on Dec. 11.

3. Young Bee Street kids jump on the sleigh for a picture with Santa, who finished his roughly four-hour tour around Islamorada.

4. Islamorada Fire Rescue’s Heidi Hungling loads up the trailer as Santa and his helpers depart Bee Street.

5. Residents wave as Santa and his sleigh pass by.

Photos by Doug Finger. Visit keysweekly. com for a gallery of photos.

CLAUS COMES TO

Sleigh guided by fire rescue stops in Islamorada

Christmas Eve Service 6 pm

Christmas Day 10 am Morning Prayer

St. James the Fisherman Episcopal Church 87500 Overseas Highway, Islamorada – 305-852-8468

KEY WEST WOMAN THE FIRST TO BE ENTERED INTO HALL OF FAME

ZACK WOLTANSKI www.keysweekly.com

On Dec. 7, local athlete Jennifer Averette made history as Monroe County’s first inductee to Florida’s Special Olympics Hall of Fame. A tireless athlete, volunteer and activist, Averette was recognized for her major contributions to the Special Olympics, and for her athletic accomplishments, at the Gaylord Palms Resort in Orlando.

Averette has been involved as an athlete in the Special Olympics for years, and the program has meant a lot to her. “My favorite thing about it is that it doesn’t matter your abilities,” Averette said. “(The program treats) you equally.”

In 2018, she competed in the National Special Olympics games for stand-up paddleboarding, and she helped bring the sport of paddleboarding to Florida’s Special Olympics. She has competed and participated in a long list of sports, including bowling, flag football and bocce.

Outside of being an athlete, Averette has worked as a Special Olympics health messenger and an officiant to the 2022 games in Florida. As an officiant, she took charge in a leadership position that helped to plan the competitions.

She also serves the role of community activist as Monroe County’s sole representative for the Special Olympics Athlete Council. She attends meetings, which, she says, help to “open up a bunch of new opportunities for us down here.” She’s spoken determinedly on the need for funding the Special Olympics and other organizations providing opportunities for those with special needs.

“She is passionate about getting people to understand that she has a vote, that she has a say, and that she’s a citizen just like us,” says her mentor Ruth Holland, describing Averette’s role as an activist and a leader. “She has a speech impediment but she will make you understand what she has to say, and she considers the good of all when making leadership decisions.”

Averette’s induction marks the first time a Monroe County athlete has achieved the Hall of Fame distinction. In her acceptance speech, she thanked her family, coaches and community for helping her get to where she is today.

In the future, Averette hopes to make it to the world games for standup paddleboarding and to continue her cause of promoting opportunities for those with special needs, and inspiring young athletes in the process.

“I would tell (younger athletes) to set your goals, keep your head up, and you will come through,” says Averette.

Speaking about Averette’s many accomplishments, Holland says, “Jennifer speaks for herself. I’m so tremendously proud of her. I’m proud of her for taking on challenges and overcoming them, and I know she’s even going to go higher. This is just the start for her.”

Florida’s Special Olympics seeks to change lives by promoting inclusion for the disabled. “To be part of this organization is an honor, and it is an honor to see people’s lives change,” says Holland.

Local Special Olympics athlete Jennifer Averette is inducted into the Florida Special Olympics Hall of Fame on Dec. 7 at Gaylord Palms Resort in Orlando. RUTH HOLLAND/Contributed

Jennifer Averette, left, and Armida Averette, mom.

Grownups write to the big man

The North Pole’s mailbox fills up with wishes to be granted underneath the Christmas tree this time of year. Basketballs and VR headsets are among the hopes for kids. For adults, it’s an electric bill that’s less than $200 a month or a martini from Ziggie’s or Old Tav. This year, the Upper Keys Weekly snatched a few letters that were on their way to the North Pole to see what fellow community residents are wishing for this year.

Dear Santa, Wow, how time flies. Seems like just a few months ago I reached out to you with some very deserving requests, which apparently got lost in cyberspace. That said, I do have some updated requests for you.

1) Please extend the snook season until December 25. This would allow those of us with grown children to have a fun-filled day on the water, while still sending Merry Christmas texts to our kids, who are busy with projects stating, “slight assembly required.” HAHAHA

2) Please do not tell the fish it was extended, as they only meet the slot limit after the season is over.

3) If that very simple request cannot be achieved, please send pictures of said fish that are in the slot.

4) OK, enough with a far-fetched list, let’s get down to some real requests.

5) I would like to see a “Horn Melon” in every refrigerator. There are those out there that know how incredible they are.

6) Have kids open gifts which they can use without a Twitter, TikTok, or a Facebook account.

7) Please have American Airlines stop using gate 60 in Miami.

8) Please deliver Jason some new jackets, as he continues to be outdone by Scott Russell.

9) I still could use that new lawn mower as the rocks have taken their toll on mine.

10) Finally, please deliver to all, a safe and happy holiday season!

Jim Mooney, state representative

Dear Santa, Honestly, my Christmas wish is to be just like you, eat cookies nonstop, work one night out of the entire year, and as a homegrown Alaska girl, fly around in a sleigh pulled by tiny reindeer, who are all female by the way, because we girls know how to get it done. However, in all seriousness, I wish for joy and delight for all my loved ones and friends. Life has been interesting lately, to say the least, and we could all use some legit holiday spirit. I also wish for my son, Drake, to be thoughtful, kind and to be a leader in his own right. After all, with me as his mom, adventures and challenges rule the day. Additionally, if he can achieve higher grades in math, that would be amazing. As for our incredible community, I wish for countywide peace. World peace may not be attainable now, so let’s be real and stick with what we have the power to do as a collective tribe. Our Florida Keys people are limitless in valuable qualities like loyalty, unity, and my favorite, eccentricity, all attributes that make our little island chain so special and equally inspiring. And lastly, I wish for those who are struggling during this festive season to find solace in the opportunities that this awesome planet we call home offers. Here, you will always find someone to talk to, or about, a place to get a delicious snack, or a cocktail, and that one thing that makes you eternally happy, or wild “at heart.” Godspeed to you and your boss lady reindeer, Monroe County Commissioner Holly Merrill Raschein

Dear Santa, Thank you for all the wonderful blessings over the years. You really are the best!

This year, I have a really big ask. Can you help get some affordable housing building permit allocations for the Upper Keys? You see, Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys would love to build more affordable housing, and it’s critically needed here. The only thing stopping us is the lack of available permits. Any help would be extremely appreciated.

PS. Special shout out to all the “elves'' who have helped HFHUK over the years, especially CBT Construction! They all deserve extra presents this year.

Have a Merry Christmas, Lindsay Fast, Habitat for Humanity of the Florida Keys executive director

Hello Santa! How are you? Wow, it has been a long time since I last wrote. I’m Elizabeth, do you remember me? I am the one that got a new Chatty Cathy each year, until that year, I got the doll that resembled the one in the Twilight Zone! Yikes, after that, it was all downhill. Do you recall getting me the chemistry and biology set with the microscope? Well, I do! It was a disaster. I could not wait for adult supervision and mixed a few chemicals and my hands turned purple for a long time. You would think I would learn, no! I had to open up the biology set “yuk.” My Nana did not appreciate the dead frog lying on the basement floor stinking up the room prior to Christmas Dinner. As much as you tried to make me a rocket scientist, it wasn’t meant to be. The positive news is, I did become good at talking. So, all was not lost; Chatty Cathy had a positive influence on me. I made a career of it.

Elizabeth Moscynski, Key Largo Chamber of Commerce president

Dear Santa, I'd like to start off by thanking you for finally answering my years-long wishes to get Apple to implement the feature on phones for making "read" text messages "unread." My social life has vastly improved because of this. This year I'd like to ask you one simple thing. Could you possibly use your sway to get a Target in the Upper Keys? I know you've done what you could with the new one in Homestead, but it still doesn't make it a lot easier for us "on the rock." The fine folks at USPS, UPS, and FedEx are so sick of multiple daily deliveries to my house for things like dish soap and a bath mat. As I know you'll understand, the task of delivering is not easy! I won't be picky; anywhere between Mile Marker 106 and Mile Marker 75 will work great. I even know a great real estate team to help you facilitate this.

Thanks for your work on Apple; spend some extra time in Minneapolis this year and help us all out, please!

Love always, Lauren Naughton, Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty marketing director and director of operations

Dear Santa, Hello from the Florida Keys. You are still the beacon of hope we can believe in. Your message of giving and sharing is as steadfast from the very beginning as now in the present. You illuminate our belief in you, no matter how old you are we are all equal in receiving your good will and many presents. All I wish for is peace, love and kindness. Please spread that around our world.

I'll be looking forward to sneaking a peek at you on December 24 and having a safe trip to our beautiful islands. You bring happiness and unconditional love to all who believe in you.

Thanks Santa, Lisa Bradeen (still a kid at heart)

Dear Santa,

When I originally sat down to write this letter, I was so unsure of what I would ask. All of a sudden, I had an epiphany!

Let me start by providing some history.

During the beginning of my career, I remember being at a particular venue. The beginning of the evening was always a little slow and as time went by, the venue would fill up. On this particular night though, the venue began reaching capacity much earlier in the evening. The place got so crowded that the fire marshal was coming by every hour to make sure we were not over capacity. During that night, there was one particular point in time when a good friend of mine said, "Look at the crowd below!" It was then that I realized what attracted me to my career.

So this year, I would like to ask for happiness, joy, and unity for all of mankind across the world!

Thanks Santa, Henry Menendez, Your event producer in the Florida Keys

Dear Santa, This year I wish for a few things from you if you can help. For one, please help us get rid of all the left lane lollygaggers on the roads. Please, Santa! And could you maybe put coal in all the stockings of all the drivers here too? They don’t deserve anything else, no one uses or knows how to use their turn signals. And maybe for all the bumper humpin’ tailgaters out there too. They should get coal too.

Oh, and all the woke people and Karens need a good batch of coal. Please let my 401K start growing again that would help me a lot. I’ll leave you some Buffalo wings and Genesee cream ale by the tree for you, hope you enjoy that better than the venison bites I left last year, sorry about that. I wasn’t thinking.

And like always, lots and lots of moonshine for me. Thanks Santa. Keep safe on your journey. Oh remember to tell Mrs. Claus not to feed the reindeer beans before you take off too.

God Bless Dougie Hitchcock, Thunder Country 100.3

SANT A CLAU S

Dear Santa, We have some really good, no, really AMAZING students in our schools here in the fabulous Florida Keys. They come to school ready to learn and eager to see their friends. Sometimes though, they lose their minds! This seems to coincide with the full moons. Do you have any pull up there to fix this phenomenon? They are, however, hard workers, both in and out of school. Their hearts are in the right place, and you can rest assured they will do great things in our community. Please do whatever it takes so there can be peace and joy in their homes while they are out of school for two weeks. Food. Rest. A very healthy sprinkle of magic pixie dust as you fly over. Whatever it takes. The seniors would also appreciate some early college acceptances.

Now for the staff. Monroe County School District staff up and down the Keys is incredible. They all need more of the same. In addition, some affordable housing couldn’t hurt. Maybe you have some spare tiny houses you could drop along the way? The kind that you just add water to make them grow? We have plenty of water here in the islands, so we can do our part. If you can fly by the Bureau of Printing and Engraving on your way here, we’d like to pay all employees their true value, unrestrained by budget. You might have to circle the globe for that one!

May peace and joy accompany you on your flight, Laura Lietaert

Principal of Coral Shores High School, on behalf of MCSD principals

PETS MEET SANTA & OWNERS GRAB A PIÑA COLADA

Keys Kritters’ marquee holiday event returns after a hiatus

1. This feline awaits a photo with Santa Claus. CAROLYN DEPAULA/Contributed

2. Santa Claus visits Keys Kritters for the annual Pets & Piña Coladas Dec. 10-11.

3. Dogs like this one dressed in holiday attire get in line for a picture with Santa.

4. The Majeska mom-and-daughter team welcome families and their pets to the 23rd annual Pets & Piña Coladas at Keys Kritters.

Although there is no chill in the air, just like us Conchs and transplants like it, Christmas in the Keys welcomes the season in our own subtropical way, punctuating the first few weeks in December with fun events which run the gamut from festivals to sip-and-shops.

One such treasured event here in the Upper Keys for the past 22 years has been Pets & Piña Coladas, a celebration of pets and their humans, with Santa paying Keys Kritters pet shop a visit.

After a two-year hiatus, the popular Keys Kritters pet store in Key Largo continued its tradition of taking holiday photos with Santa as well as offering free frozen piña coladas and strawberry daiquiris, apropos for a Keys holiday. These frozen drinks were

available sans alcohol as well, making this a family-friendly weekend.

Hundreds of leashed dogs, a few exotic pets and several cats attended this joyful staple of the Upper Keys community over the weekend. Framed between palm tree and Christmas tree, a few hundred pets – mostly dogs –and their families took a photo with Santa himself. The stunning, grayishcolored hairless cat wearing a leash was carried away as if he was used to photo shoots; his piercing green eyes looked ready for some serious afterpaparazzi pampering.

Luckily, he was at the right place, as Keys Kritters was having a sale on all things Christmas, including its holidaythemed decorative pet cookies, chews, a wide array of cat and dog toys, collars, leashes, and costumes. Keys Kritters owner Robbie Majeska stated all Christmas-themed toys and treats will be on sale through Dec. 24.

CAROLYN DEPAULA www.keysweekly.com

JOIN THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF ONE OF FLORIDA’S LARGEST EDUCATION FOCUSED NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

The Early Learning Coalition of Miami-Dade/Monroe, Inc., is seeking a private sector and Early Head Start/Head Start director to ll vacant board seats. To qualify members must meet the statutory requirements, as de ned in Chapter 1002.83, Florida statutes.

Governor appointed private sector business members, either for-pro t or nonpro t, who do not (or any relatives as de ned in s. 112.3143) have a substantial nancial interest in the design or delivery of the Voluntary Prekindergarten Education Program (1002.51 – 79, Florida Statutes) or the School Readiness Program (1002.81 – 995, Florida Statutes).

To apply for this position go to https://www. gov.com/appointments/ and ll out the application.

Early Head Start or Head Start director, candidate must reside in Florida and be the director of an early care and education program o ering Early Head Start and/or Head Start and conducting business in Miami-Dade or Monroe County.

To apply for this position go to https://bit.ly/ELCMDM_BOD or scan the QR code for the application.

business members, either for-profit or nonprofit. The Early Learning Coalition of Miami-Dade/Monroe is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring high-quality early education for children in Miami-Dade and Monroe. Through a community-based collaborative approach, we are committed to promoting high-quality early learning, advocating on behalf of children, and preparing every child for success in both school and life.

This publication was made possible by Grant Number 90TP0068-02-00 from the O ce of Child Care, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

MM 1 - Inez Martin Child Care Center (C16M0012)

1100 Varela St., Key West, FL 33040

Contact: Christine Patterson • 305-809-5055 • christine.patterson@wesleyhouse.org Vacancies: 3 teachers

MM 2 - Sunbeam Christian School (C16MO0034) 1311 5th St., Key West, FL 33040

Contact: Jerlyn Matthews • 305-2946018 • sunbeam@fsbckw.org Vacancies: 3 teachers

MM 5 - Lighthouse Christian Academy (C16MO0014) 5580 MacDonald Ave, Key West, FL 33040 Jennifer Sisco • 305-292-5582 • lcaoffice@cwckw.org Vacancies: 1 floater

MM 22.9 - Banana Cabanna Academy Inc. (C16MO0054) 22673 Pieces of Eight Rd, Cudjoe Key, FL 33042

Contact: Roxanne Rosado • 305-745-1400 • banana.cabanna@att.net Vacancies: 2 teachers

MM 47 - Kreative Kids Christian Academy (X16MO0001) 4711 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

Contact: Maria Vaillant • 305-743-7165 Kreativekidsca@bellsouth.net • vaillantmaria@yahoo.com Vacancies: 2 teachers

MM 49 - Grace Jones Community Center, Inc. (C16MO0048) 230 41st Street Gulf, Marathon, FL 33050

Kelly Ullrich • 305-743-6064 • gjcckids@gmail.com Vacancies: 3 teachers

MM 87.5 - St. James Children’s Center (C16MO0033) 87500 Overseas Hwy, I slamorada, FL 33036

Contact: Sue Ellen Bennett • 305-852-2161 • childrenscenter@stjamesthefisherman.org Vacancies: 1 teacher

MM 92 - Burton Memorial CDC (C16MO0018) 93001 Overseas Hwy, Tavernier, FL 33070

Contact: Nilda Bernaldez • 305-852-0250 • acabar11@yahoo.com Vacancies: 2 part-time floaters

MM 99 - First Baptist Church Jack Hill Child Care (C16MO0021) 99001 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037

Contact: Leeanna Woods • 305-451-2125 • fbcjhccc@yahoo.com Vacancies: 1 teacher

COLLECTING FOOD

STAR OF THE SEA TEAMING UP WITH KEY LARGO CHAMBER TO OBTAIN NONPERISHABLES

DOWN SOME BEERS & RUN

RACING WEEKEND BRINGS THE NOTABLE DRINK TREK

Star of the Sea’s (SOS) food pantry at St. Justin’s Church and Key Largo Chamber of Commerce members are working together to collect nonperishable food for the holidays.

The drive will end on Friday, Dec. 23. This holiday the drive is looking to replenish its food pantry along with supplies for the upcoming year. During the past few months the pantry has experienced difficulties with obtaining key items such as canned meats, tuna and vegetables. Even staples such as peanut/nut butters, pasta and rice are in short supply.

The main offices and facilities for the SOS Foundation, which operates two client-choice food pantries, are in Key West. It also runs the Callahan Community Kitchen, which supplies fresh meals weekly to seniors and other needy residents. A nutrition education program for children and adults and cooking classes are also offered. The northern location for the SOS Foundation Food Pantry is located at 105500 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, at the St. Justin Martyr Catholic Church Parish Hall on the bayside. The pantry operates on Mondays from 1:30 to 5 p.m.

Each Monday, the day begins with trucks rolling in and staff and

volunteers offloading pallets of meats, produce, canned goods and supplies. About 15 local volunteers assist in each part of the operation. This year, the pantry has added pet food for family pet needs.

Publix in Key Largo generously supplies sweet and savory baked goods every week. Upper Crust Pizza and Avenue Subs supply lunches for the volunteers, who often start at 7:30 a.m. and stay till closing at 5 p.m.

This year the pantry has experienced a larger number of service workers in the Keys using the food bank to supplement their food needs. Mothers with children, veterans, elderly, and some who have found their way to the keys and are lost, all need food.

Experienced volunteers do their best to advise, console and sometimes supply something as simple as a seat in the air conditioning and a bottle of water.

The weekly delivery trucks are often only half full of food supplies, yet 150 people and their families each week depend on the pantry to offer healthy choices even with the limited availability in offerings. The Key Largo Chamber of Commerce and its members have helped replenish the SOS food pantry.

— Contributed

Runners from

beers and ran four laps on Dec. 10. As part of a weekend of racing in Islamorada

half marathon and 10K, day one saw the Beach ’n’ Beer Mile. Runners drank a total of four beers during the run around Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina. Andrew Killinger, 41, of Parker, Colorado took first-place in the competitive division with a time of 9 minutes and 16 seconds. Jennifer Pressley, 45, of Jupiter, Florida, was the top female runner in the competitive division with a time of 13 minutes and 52 seconds. Runners also had the chance to take part in a less competitive, social-drink- and-run category. Visit runsignup.com/Race/FL/Islamorada/ Islamoradahalfmarathon for results on all races. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

BRIEFLY

Those needing some help wrapping gifts have a place to go this holiday season. And it’s all going to support a local coral restoration project in Key Largo.

Coral Shores student Angelino Bello recently organized a gift-wrapping fundraiser that began Dec. 17 at Divers Direct, Mile Marker 99.6, in Key Largo. Those who bring their presents for gift wrapping will be supporting coral restoration at North Dry Rocks in collaboration with Reef Renewal.

Volunteers from the Coral Shores Environmental Club and Marine Science classes will be assisting Bello with holiday gift wrapping outside Divers Direct. People can bring gifts to have them wrapped for free. Bello said those wishing to make a donation toward the project would be greatly appreciated.

The holiday wrapping fundraiser will go through Friday, Dec. 23 from noon to 4 p.m.

Wounded Warrior Bike Ride set

The Wounded Warrior Project’s Soldier Ride takes place Friday, Jan. 6, and Saturday, Jan. 7, in the Upper, Middle and Lower Keys. Residents and visitors are encouraged to cheer on and support the warriors or join them for the community ride on Saturday in Key West.

“The Wounded Warrior Project Soldier Ride is an opportunity for those who honorably serve or have served our nation to build confidence and strength from wounds incurred in service,” said Monroe County Veterans Affairs Director Cathy Crane, who is also a coordinator of the event. “We enthusiastically welcome these warriors as they ride through the Florida Keys.”

Motorists should take extra time to get to their destination during the ride times. U.S. 1 will remain open for the Soldier Ride, but motorists should be patient, use caution and note there may be rolling lane shifts in traffic.

Art under the Oaks set for Jan. 14

The 39th annual Art under the Oaks Festival presented by San Pedro Catholic Church will take place on Jan. 14, 2023 at the church gardens at 89500 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The church grounds provide the venue to enjoy fine art and original crafts on display by local and regional artists.

The festival includes local food, beverages, bake sale items, a raffle of arts and crafts and a variety of live music. Admission is free and there is free parking at Plantation Key School just north of the church or in church parking lot for a $5 donation. More information is available from the parish office at 305-852-5372 ext. 3.

Star of the Sea and the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce are teaming up to collect nonperishable food for families this holiday season. CONTRIBUTED Get your gifts wrapped and help the reef

the Keys, parts of Florida, Colorado and other states downed

for the

FICTITIOUS NAME

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of SANCTUARY AQUARIUM INC. located at P.O. Box 370664, Key Largo, FL 33037 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Carlos Vilarchao Publish: December 22, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE TO SELL

Wheatons Towing gives notice that on 12/29/2022 at 10:00 am, the following vehicle(s) may be sold by public sale at 101500 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037 to satisfy the lien for the amount owed on each vehicle for any recovery, towing, or storage services charges and administrative fees

allowed pursuant to Florida statute 713.78. Wheatons Towing reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids.

1GTEC14V3YE185331 2000 GMC

Publish: December 15 & 22, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

LEGAL NOTICE

LOST TITLE APPLICATION NO: 2431504

OFFICE OF TITLES

NOTICE PURSUANT TO SECTION 82 OF THE REGISTRATION OF TITLES ACT (RTA)

WHEREAS the applicant(s) in the above state application has/ have declared that the following duplicate Certificate of Title has been lost, I HEREBY GIVE NOTICE that I intend to cancel the said Certificate of Title and issue a new one in duplicate fourteen days after the last publication of the advertisement.

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

Volume: 1448 Folio: 868

Lot: 8 Place: Part of Bluefields

Parish: Westmoreland

Registered proprietor(s): John McSherry

Dated: November 14, 2022 L. Dunbar

Deputy Registrar of Titles To publish in the Daily Gleaner/ Jamaica Observer for two consecutive weeks and Publish: December 15 & 22, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The District I Advisory Committee (DAC I) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Wednesday, January 11, 2023, at 3:00 P.M., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be:

Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/88429343368

Meeting ID: 884 2934 3368

One tap mobile +13052241968,,88429343368# US +13126266799,,88429343368# US (Chicago)

Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing: MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at: Pacini-Maxine@monroecounty-fl. gov, or by calling (305) 296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 A.M. –5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday. Documents must be received no later than 12:00 P.M., on Wednesday, January 4, 2023.

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open

to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

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

Publish: December 22, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The District II Advisory Committee (DAC II) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, January 10, 2023, at 6:00 P.M., via Communications Media

Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be:

Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/86155674193 Meeting ID: 861 5567 4193

One tap mobile +13052241968,,86155674193# US +13126266799,,86155674193# US (Chicago)

Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing: MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at: Pacini-Maxine@monroecounty-fl. gov, or by calling (305) 296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 A.M. –5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday. Documents must be received no later than 12:00 P.M., on Wednesday, January 4, 2023.

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

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

Publish: December 22, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The District III Advisory Committee (DAC III) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Wednesday, January 11, 2023, at 9:30 A.M., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/81105688651 Meeting ID: 811 0568 8651 One tap mobile +13052241968,,81105688651# US +19292056099,,81105688651# US (New York)

Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing: MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at: Pacini-Maxine@monroecounty-fl. gov, or by calling (305) 296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 A.M. –5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday.

Documents must be received no later than 12:00 P.M., on Wednesday, January 4, 2023.

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a

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

Publish: December 22, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The District IV Advisory Committee (DAC IV) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, January 10, 2023, at 2:00 P.M., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be:

Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/86212474907

Meeting ID: 862 1247 4907

One tap mobile +13052241968,,86212474907# US +16469313860,,86212474907# US

Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing: MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at: Pacini-Maxine@monroecounty-fl. gov, or by calling (305) 296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 A.M. –5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday. Documents must be received no later than 12:00 P.M., on Wednesday, January 4, 2023.

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

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

Publish: December 22, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The District V Advisory Committee (DAC V) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, January 10, 2023, at 10:00 A.M., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/88955213123

Meeting ID: 889 5521 3123

One tap mobile +13052241968,,88955213123# US +13126266799,,88955213123# US

LEGAL NOTICES

Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing: MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at: Pacini-Maxine@monroecounty-fl. gov, or by calling (305) 296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 A.M. –5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday. Documents must be received no later than 12:00 P.M., on Wednesday, January 4, 2023.

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

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

Publish: December 22, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT

FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 22-CP-117-M

DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS

IN RE: ESTATE OF WALTER FLORIMONT Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Walter Florimont, deceased, whose date of death was October 30, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050.

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

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

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: December 22, 2022.

Personal Representative: Cynthia Dawn Florimont 925 43rd Street Marathon, Florida 33050

Attorney for Personal Representative: Richard E. Warner

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134

RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-6022

Fax: (305) 743-6216

E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw.com

Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com

Publish: December 22 & 29, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT

FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 22-CP-111-M

DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS

IN RE: ESTATE OF ALLEN L. SIMMONS Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Allen L. Simmons, deceased, whose date of death was

November 6, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: December 22, 2022.

Personal Representative: Susan M. Simmons 5 Ocean East Marathon, Florida 33050

Attorney for Personal Representative: Richard E. Warner

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134 RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6022 Fax: (305) 743-6216 E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw.com

Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com

Publish: December 22 & 29, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 22-CP-93-M

DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF PATRICIA A. GROHN Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Patricia A. Grohn, deceased, whose date of death was July 11, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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 15, 2022.

Personal Representative: Christine McClellan 1280 W. Indian Trail, Unit 5 Aurora, Illinois 60506

Attorney for Personal

LEGAL NOTICES

Representative: Robert K. Miller, Esq.

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 359173

Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938

Marathon, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-9428 Fax: (305) 743-8800

E-Mail: service@floridakeyslaw.

com

Secondary E-Mail: rmiller@ floridakeyslaw.com Publish: December 15 & 22, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2022-CP-043-M IN RE: ESTATE OF DONALD H. BEETSCHEN, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of DONALD H. BEETSCHEN, deceased, whose date of death was April 12, 2011, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The estate is testate and the date of the decedent’s Will and any codicils are June 21, 2017. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against 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 SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this Notice is: December 15, 2022.

Personal Representative: Donna M. Hoffman, CPA 428 80th Street Marathon, FL 33050

Attorney for Personal Representative: James J. Dorl, Esq. Florida Bar No. 618403

JAMES J. DORL, P.A. Suite 12 First Professional Centre 5701 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6565 Facsimile: (305) 743-4143 e-mail: jjdorl@yahoo.com Publish: December 15 & 22, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2022-CP-340-K

IN RE: ESTATE OF JERRY MAGGARD LAWSON, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of JERRY MAGGARD LAWSON, deceased, whose date of death was January 25, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The estate is testate and the date of the decedent’s Will and any codicils are March 22, 2002. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against 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 SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this Notice is: December 15, 2022.

Ancillary Personal Representative: Cynthia Diane Van Vynckt 5051 Highway 162 South Covington, GA 30016

Attorney for Ancillary Personal Representative: James J. Dorl, Esq. Florida Bar No. 618403

JAMES J. DORL, P.A. Suite 12 First Professional Centre 5701 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-6565 Facsimile: (305) 743-4143 e-mail: jjdorl@yahoo.com Publish: December 15 & 22, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO. 22-CP-000091-P IN RE: ESTATE OF DOUGLAS FREDERICK PEEL, A/K/A DOUGLAS F. PEEL DECEASED.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the Estate of Douglas Frederick Peel, deceased, whose date of death was February 17, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, 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 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 15, 2022.

Personal Representative: Tina D. Peel 234 Atlantic Boulevard Key Largo, Florida 33037

Attorney for Personal Representative: Cyrus Malhotra, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 0022751 THE MALHOTRA LAW FIRM, P.A.

3903 Northdale Blvd., Suite 100E

Tampa, FL 33624

Telephone: (813) 902-2119 Fax: (727) 290-4044 E-Mail: filings@ flprobatesolutions.com Secondary E-Mail: ryan@ flprobatesolutions.com Publish: December 15 & 22, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 22-CP-000144-P IN RE: ESTATE OF MARTIN G. LANE, JR., Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Martin G. Lane, Jr., deceased, whose date of death was October 28, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Tavernier, 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 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 15, 2022.

Personal Representative: Sheri Phillips Lane c/o Dunwody White & Landon, P.A. 4001 Tamiami Trail North, Suite 200 Naples, FL 34103

Attorney for Personal Representative: DUNWODY WHITE & LANDON, P.A. Alfred J. Stashis, Jr., Esq. Florida Bar Number: 14772 Jonathan T. Baker, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 97793 4001 Tamiami Trail North, Suite 200 Naples, FL 34103

Telephone: (239) 263-5885 Fax: (239) 262-1442 Publish: December 15 & 22, 2022 The

CARETAKER COUPLE WANTED at small Abaco, Bahamas beach resort having $500-$1000/night accommodations in exchange for Security and Supervision of the Landscaper. Call or text 305-439-9991.

Night Monitor – FREE Private Room in exchange for overnight coverage at an Assisted Living Facility. 5 nights on, 5 nights off 10pm8am with weekly stipend Drug and background screen required. Apply at www.westcare.com

Join the Ocean Dayz Team! We are accepting applications for a Sales Associate in Islamorada. Must be outgoing, detail oriented and willing to work weekends. Experience a plus. Starting pay dependent upon qualifications. Apply in person at Island Dreamz, 84001 Overseas Highway, Islamorada or submit resume to: csteele@oceandayz.com

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time server. $12/hr + Guaranteed tip pool, employee meals, private club & friendly atmosphere. Weeknight and Saturday evening availability. Call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview.

CDL Drivers needed. Must have a clean record & drug free. We are offering competitive wages. Please apply in person at Discount Rock & Sand, 10500 Aviation Blvd, Unit 2, Marathon

SS Wreck and Galley Grill on Grassy Key is looking for line cooks, full or part time. Please call Nicole at 305433-0515, or email nicole@ themoongroupfl.com.

Boat rental company in Marathon needs an Outboard Mechanic. Some general marina work, and boat experience a plus. Call 305-481-7006

All Keys Yamaha hiring a Technician Marine Repair specializing in Yamaha outboard engines. Hours M-F 8a-5p. Apply in person at 2001 Overseas Highway, Marathon. 305-743-3530

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

Immediate positions at the Grassy Key Marina. Under new ownership and looking for smiling faces. Fulltime or part-time available. Pay rates are commensurate with experience but we are willing to interview those with no experience who have an interest in working in a marina environment. Please call Randall Glass to schedule an interview at 305-465-1491.

Immediate openings for experienced plumbers and helpers (with or without experience - we will train the right person). Must have a valid driver's license & clean driving record. Please apply in person at 10700 5th Avenue Gulf, Marathon or email resume to: eerpinc@gmail.com

The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a Customer-Service Oriented Server for the pool deck, beach and/or bar lounge. Open year round, 10am-7pm daily. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404219-3359 and ask for Dave.

The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a Part-Time Line Cook. Open year round, 10am-7pm daily. Small friendly staff. Hourly pay commensurate with experience. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404219-3359 and ask for Dave.

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker), Med Tech, Resident Activities Coordinator. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: martinezm@ kwha.org or 305-296-5621. Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www.kwha.orgEOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.

NOW HIRING: Sweet Savannah's is now hiring for multiple positions: Cashiermust be 16 yrs or older, Fulltime Baker & Part-time Baker's Assistant. Stop by for an application at 8919 Overseas Highway, Marathon or email: info@sweetsavannahs.com

Place your EMPLOYMENT ad here for $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578

HOUSING FOR RENT STUDIO APT FOR RENT

- Furnished Studio Apt w/ patio, like new, W/D, off street parking. Key West. $2,300/month including util. F/L/S Owner/Agent Douglas Miller 305-747-1700

Place your HOUSING FOR RENT ad here for $25.00/ week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

FOR SALE

EMPLOYMENT

City of Marathon Current Job Openings: WW Operator/Controls Trainee, Support Services/ Logistics, Paralegal, Utilities Maintenance, Recreation Specialist, Right of Way Technician, and Marina Tech/Pump Out Captain. Full Benefits. EOE Please see City website for details www.ci.marathon.fl.us

RV LOT FOR RENT

PARALEGAL

The Turtle Hospital in Marathon

to: TurtleHospitalMarathon@gmail.com

Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Customer Services Department:

CUSTOMER SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE I

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $19.82/hr. - $22.20/hr.

For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.

KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.

Keys Energy Services, in Key West, is accepting applications for the following position in its Fleets & Facilities Section:

AUTO DIESEL VEHICLE TECHNICIAN

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $27.17/hr. - $30.43/hr.

For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.

KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.

Northeast winds, 8-10 mph 50% chance of rain 1 foot seas

WINTER BREAK BRINGS THE CHANCE TO DIVE

Conditions this past week weren’t all that great. We had a couple days of high winds but it did lie down nicely for the weekend. We're looking at the upcoming forecast of some chilly, iguana-fallingout-of-the-trees kind of days.

But don't let that stop you from getting out there and enjoying the underwater world with the entire family. Now that our kids are out of school for a couple weeks, it’s the perfect time to enjoy a family adventure trip to our reefs and wrecks. The Xbox and cell phones don't work underwater, so it’s a great opportunity to unplug with the family and enjoy some time together, while swimming with turtles and rays and such.

And don't forget: locals get a discounted rate and active and veterans of our military dive for free at certain dive shops. If you or the kiddos aren't certified, now is the time. It's very simple these days with online technology. You

ERIC BILLIPS

is the owner, captain and instructor at Islamorada Dive Center and Florida Keys Dive Center. He specializes in scuba, rebreather, spearfishing and captaining in the Florida Keys.

attend class online, which is usually around six to eight hours total that you can accomplish over a period of time. It doesn't need to be completed in one sitting. Once you're done, then it's two days of pool and ocean diving and you're certified. And again, locals get discounts for classes as well. It pays off living in this paradise sometimes. So reach out to your local dive shop and either sign up for classes or a dive charter and make this Christmas break an active and rewarding one.

CONSERVATION TIP

There are many conservation classes that divers can take part in to learn more and help our oceans. These include everything from coral restoration to dives against debris to turtle awareness. Sign up with your local dive shop.

A pair of divers descend beneath the surface. TYLER