Upper Keys Weekly 23-1221

‘One of the most glorious messes in the world is the mess created in the living room on Christmas Day. Don’t clean it up too quickly.’ — Andy Rooney

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December 21, 2023

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL Santa visits with pets & tykes | P. 15 & 17

WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S Inaugural event raises massive dollars | P. 11 A LIFE WELL LIVED Paying homage to Tom McDonald | P. 8

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

SECLUDED LUXURY

1565 Ocean Bay Drive is a very special, secluded 2.5-acre private peninsula is surrounded by 25 acres of park and nature preserves. This extraordinary property, as seen in Mansion Global, offers a unique lifestyle of ultimate privacy with 135 feet of pristine ocean frontage in the heart of the Florida Keys. This luxurious residence features three bedrooms, two baths, plus an office. The elevated design is adorned with open wrap-around porches, the perfect vantage point to capture the refreshing on-shore breezes and breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. The monolith construction of the home is a testament to its durability, with steel tied inside poured concrete columns and beams, ensuring it withstands the test of time. Every room offers a window to paradise, ensuring you are one with nature. The primary bedroom features a unique glass indoor-outdoor shower, an exquisite way to optimize the island sanctuary surroundings and start your day harmoniously with natural beauty. Enjoy resort-like amenities such as a heated and chilled pool, tiki torches and fire pits, and a fully equipped bar. 1565 Ocean Bay Drive is conveniently close to your favorite restaurants, shopping destinations, and essential amenities, offering the best of both worlds — tranquility and accessibility. Plans for a three bedroom guest house included.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

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The lighting of an 80-foot tall Christmas tree took place for the 90th time earlier this month in New York City. This year’s tree is an 80-year-old Norway spruce.

It weighs 12 tons and is wrapped with 50,000 LEDs.

Santa Claus comes to town.

DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

VILLAGE COUNCIL REVERSES COURSE ON TERM-LIMIT PROPOSAL Pinder named mayor once again JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

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isplays of division and dysfunction were witnessed on occasions inside Founders Park Community Center as the Islamorada council conducted its business in 2023. But there was a glimmering moment of unity at the council’s final meeting of the year on Dec. 14, as the group of five members reconsidered and unanimously decided to revise a term-limit proposal that brought fiery discussion a month before.

On Nov. 7, the council voted 3-2 to send the question of cumulative eightyear term limits to village voters in the November 2024 election. Currently, the village charter allows council members the chance to run and serve eight consecutive years, which translates to four two-year terms, before having to step away. A termed-out councilperson could step away for a year, two years or more, make another run for office and serve another eight years.

A proposal before the council last month, however, would ask voters if they’re in favor of eight cumulative years — and make the limit retroactive. Councilman Mark Gregg, who voted against the call for referendum, believed the proposal was targeted at several members, like former mayor Deb Gillis, himself and others who’ve held several terms in village office. He call the idea “political assassination by charter.”

The proposal passed via a 3-2 vote during a Nov. 7 meeting. Vice Mayor Sharon Mahoney, Councilwoman Elizabeth Jolin and Councilman Henry Rosenthal supported the term limit referendum. Two days later at a Nov. 9 meeting, however, Rosenthal asked council members to reconsider the previous vote to send the term limits question to voters. Sure enough, the council voted 3-2 for a reconsideration in December.

During council’s meeting on Dec. 14, Gregg asked fellow council members to eliminate the retroactive part

of language within the referendum.

“This has an impact on those who might want to serve in the future,” he said. “I do this not for the money, obviously, because I love it and love my community and I love the environment here.”

Rosenthal reversed course from his prior vote and told council members at the Dec. 14 meeting that he didn’t support sending a term limit question of eight-years retroactive to the voters. He said the proposal wasn’t fair to Gregg and Gillis, who could be affected by the new proposal. Rosenthal went on to say his first vote went along with the dissension seen and faced within the Islamorada council and community in recent times.

“That is not pulling us together as a body,” Rosenthal said. “I don’t care if they’re (council members) here 150 years, the public will make that choice.”

Mahoney commended Rosenthal for changing his mind and “pulling everyone together.” Council members voted 5-0 to alter language to eight cumulative years that wouldn’t be retroactive. If approved by voters next November, the new eight-year cumulative term limit would commence once the newly-elected council is seated.

Council members unanimously approved an ordinance that would call for a referendum to increase monthly compensation from $1,000 to $1,500.

Pay for the five members has remained at $1,000 a month going back to March 2006. A 2005 referendum saw a majority of voters supporting a bump in pay, which at one point was $300 per month.

Gregg proposed the referendum also include language that council members are entitled to a cost of living adjustment that village staff receive annually. Council members also said “yes.”

“I appreciate the volunteer nature of many things that I know we all spend our time doing, but this is kind of an intense volunteer effort,” Jolin said.

Buddy Pinder was selected as mayor for the second year in a row at a Dec. 12 meeting at Founders Park Community Center. JIM McCARTH/Keys Weekly

Vice Mayor Sharon Mahoney, left, and Councilwoman Elizabeth Jolin.

Councilman Mark Gregg, left, and Councilman Henry Rosenthal.

Scan the QR code for the full story.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

FLOODED NEIGHBORHOOD GETS SOLUTION

Commissioners say ‘yes’ to raise roads at Stillwright Storm surge from Hurricane Ian in 2022 filled streets and driveways inside Stillwright Point in Key Largo. EMILIE CALDWELL STEWART/Contributed

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

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onroe County commissioners heeded the wishes of Stillwright Point residents who wanted their roads raised to address a decade-long flooding problem from king tides and storms. A decision by county officials came following a three-hour Dec. 12 workshop that went over various alternatives for the bayside community.

Five alternatives were on the table for commissioners to consider for Stillwright Point residents during the gathering at the Murray Nelson Government Center. County officials said a $41 million project is currently in the design phase to raise the road some 15 inches above ground and install a pressurized stormwater system to move water and mitigate king tides. A project design wasn’t expected until 2025, and residents wanted a quicker and simpler fix. On top of that, labor and material costs doubled as county officials continue to seek state funding through a newer resilience funding program.

“With the Florida Legislature, they could fund Monroe County projects for the next 20 years and we could take all the money and nobody would ever get anything,” Haag said. “That’s what we would love. Unfortunately that’s not the case.”

Commissioners ultimately went with an alternative requested by many Stillwright Point residents during a public comment period, to add 1 to 6

inches of asphalt to their roads and streets. The cost to raise the roads is around $2.5 million. No drainage was proposed under the alternative. Emilio Corrales, project manager with the engineering firm HDR, said elevations vary on the streets within the community.

“Once you raise this location, you may be pushing the water to another property or another location,” he said, adding that 2025 king tide projections show some 17 inches of water above the road’s edge.

North Drive resident Andy Sikora said discussions have gone on for nine years. He backed the idea of raising the road 6 inches.

“We need some improvement,” he said.

Mayor Holly Merrill Raschein said the commission is willing to move the project forward as fast as possible.

But it won’t happen over the next day or week, she acknowledged. County Administrator Roman Gastesi said the design phase could take two months.

“We’ll push it,” he said. “It’s a matter of months, not a matter of years.”

Before discussion ensued over Stillwright Point, county officials provided an update on a pilot project dating back to 2017 at Key Largo’s Twin Lakes community seeking to address similar flooding issues. Judy Clark, county engineering director, said the project is in the bidding phase, with work expected in 2024. Raising roads and installation of new drainage and stormwater collection are expected to take 22 months.

WATER PIPE REPLACEMENT CONTINUES Crews install a new water main on Upper Matecumbe Key. FKAA/Contributed

Next FKAA project set for Windley Key in 2024

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lorida Keys Aqueduct Authority (FKAA) is continuing its replacement of old water pipe throughout the Upper Keys. Another project is slated for 2024 on Windley Key. On Dec. 12, FKAA’s board of directors approved the construction, management and engineering services contracts for the Windley Key transmission main replacement project. About 8,250 feet (about a mile and a half) of the existing 30-inch transmission main in Windley Key will be replaced with a new 36-inch cathodically protected steel water main. Work will take place from Whale Harbor bridge crossing to just south of Snake Creek.

“Staying proactive when it comes to ensuring uninterrupted access to clean drinking water remains our top priority,” said Greg Veliz, FKAA executive director. “The transmission main replacement work in Windley Key represents the next phase in our efforts to harden our system to address future needs.”

With work slated to begin in April 2024, it will take crews about one year

to replace the transmission main in Windley Key. Crews will work 24 hours a day, Monday through Friday, and pause work for major holidays and events. While temporary rolling lane closures are expected at certain project intervals, northbound and southbound traffic flows will be maintained throughout the project. Bike lanes will also remain open and access to all businesses will be maintained.

Installed via open-cut trench installation, the new water main will be connected to existing mains and master taps. The new pipe will be fully protected from the corrosive effects of aggressive soils and subterranean tidal flows.

The Windley Key project will cost about $15 million. The project will be partially funded by the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act of 2014 (WIFIA), a federal credit program.

More information is available by scanning the QR code, as well as from FKAA on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) or from FKAA customer service at 833-588-5865 or via email to community@fkaa.com. After-hours support is available at 305-296-2454.

— Contributed

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

KEY LARGO CHAMBER INSTALLS NEW BOARD Henry Menendez sworn in as president

Happy Holidays FROM THE CREW AT MANGROVE MIKE'S!

Key Largo Chamber of Commerce board members are sworn in by state Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez.

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

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ew Key Largo Chamber of Commerce board members raised their right hands as they were sworn in by state Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez at Key Largo’s Reefhouse Marina on Dec. 14. Henry Menendez, of HNO Productions, was sworn in as the new board chairman. New board members are Manuela Carrillo Mobley, Cari Sanders, Berta Bravo and Cathy Gahagen. Returning members include Blaine Vernicek, Ruth Schrader-Grace, Stephanie Russo, Michael Rojewski, chairelect, Melissa Fernandez, Kevin Donlan, Spenser Bryan, Henry Quintana, Angie Alvarez and Manny Alvarez. Photos by Jim McCarthy and Key Largo Chamber of Commerce.

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SPECIAL THANKS TO ALL FOR SUPPORTING US THROUGH THE YEARS! BREAKFAST ALL DAY! OPEN DAILY 6 A.M.-2 P.M. CLOSED CHRISTMAS DAY 305.664.8022 | MM 82 | ISLAMORADA

Roberto Alonso, outgoing board chairman, receives the Stuart Marr Lifetime Achievement award for his dedicated service.

Manuela Carrillo Mobley, new board member, with Elizabeth Moscynski, Key Largo Chamber of Commerce president, and Henry Menendez, chamber board chairman.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

‘HE WAS A HUMBLE LEGEND’

Upper Keys pays homage to a man of faith who was involved in all aspects of the community CHARLOTTE TWINE www.keysweekly.com

T McDonald, seen here with his grandson Andrew, put God and his family first.

CONTRIBUTED

Due to his work during the early days with the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority, McDonald had a calling center dedicated in his honor; seen here, he poses with his family at an FKAA sign.

The Dec. 2 celebration of life for Tom McDonald was packed.

om McDonald’s children can be forgiven if they mistook their father for Superman.

The 77-year-old husband, father and grandfather was not only a CPA, an army veteran, a Mosquito Board commissioner, an FKAA board member, an Upper Keys Rotarian and a church founder, but he also practiced karate — every day.

Perhaps not even a speeding bullet or Kryptonite could stop him.

“Many little girls grow up thinking their dad is Superman,” his daughter, Anna, said at the packed Dec. 2 celebration of life at Murray Nelson Government Center. “Well, I’m a few years older now and I still think that.”

“He was a humble legend,” said his daughter Kelley.

In the end, it was not Kryptonite that took him down, but a simple bicycle. While on vacation in Tennessee, he crashed his bike while on a ride with his grandchildren.

“It was instant,” his best friend of almost 40 years, lawyer Nick Mulick, told Keys Weekly. “It was a brain stem injury and all function had ceased.

There was no pain.”

He was on life support for a few days before his family made the painful decision on Nov. 9. After speaking with loved ones, one can’t help but feel that McDonald would have accepted that.

“Tom was sure he was going to heaven,” Mulick said. “He used to say, ‘Nick, I’m ready to go. I’ve had a full life.’

That struck me.”

At the celebration, a slideshow showed photo after photo of a life welllived: with his beloved wife, Rosie; with his children Sean, Kelley, Katie, Alyssa and Anna; during his West Virginia childhood; with large groups of friends (and often holding a plastic cup of beer); and as a younger man, standing on a beach at the edge of surf, extending his arms wide for balance, as if taking a large embrace.

As McDonald’s friends and family paid respects, they echoed the feeling that while he was very accomplished, he wasn’t perfect — and he didn’t take himself too seriously.

“It’s a little warm in here, so I’ll take off my jacket,” said Mulick at the celebration’s podium, revealing a tropicalprint shirt to much laughter.

Monroe County state attorney Dennis Ward said McDonald was part of a group called “The Lunch Bunch,” which met every Friday to discuss current events. McDonald, a staunch Republican, would often show his mischievous side.

“Sometimes things got heated, and Tom was right in the middle of it,” Ward said. “Sometimes people wouldn’t show up for a few weeks.”

The hang-out was started by then-State Rep. Ken Sorensen about 15 years prior. People were invited to attend based on their work in the community and potential chemistry with the group, which was a revolving cast of characters that included, among many others, Islamorada council members Buddy Pinder and Bob Johnson and county commissioner Sylvia Murphy.

Ward and Mulick invited Keys Weekly to attend the Lunch Bunch on a recent Friday (we can confirm that one better have thick skin to withstand the hazing).

Attendees that day also included hotel manager retiree Neil Boyce and Islamorada resident Mirna Hormechea.

“What happens in Lunch Bunch stays in Lunch Bunch,” said Boyce.

“If you can’t abuse your friends, who can you abuse?” Ward said, jokingly.

“I’m not listening,” Hormechea replied, straight-faced while looking at her phone.

The only time the group fell silent was at the mention of McDonald’s name.

A few days later, Mulick confirmed on the phone that McDonald is missed so deeply by the Lunch Bunch that his passing is still hard to talk about.

Longtime friend Mary Pruett, along with her husband, Darel, bought a church in Tavernier together with McDonald, naming it Pearl Christian Church.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

GOVERNOR APPOINTS BETTE BROWN TO MOSQUITO BOARD

MCDONALD CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE “He was always basing his life on what God wanted,” she said. “Decisions were made based on the scriptures, which he read daily.”

Pruett pointed out that McDonald would often perform acts of kindness, such as picking up a friend from the nursing home to go to church and then grocery store.

“He has left a big hole in a lot of people’s lives,” she said.

“Tom and I were inseparable,” Mulick said about his best friend. “What does one do? I’m not going to replace him. I don’t know anyone that was as decent and kind as he was.”

His loved ones are trying to move forward.

Mulick said he and McDonald enjoyed the Lunch Bunch every Friday as a way to have a few laughs and decompress after a challenging work week.

“And when it’s all over, we say goodbye,” he said. “When we leave, we’re smiling.”

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

G McDonald was first a commissioner for the Mosquito Control Board in the 1990s, then was re-elected in 2015; Gov. Ron DeSantis will appoint a person to fill the position.

ov. Ron DeSantis appointed Tavernier resident and retired banker Bette Brown to fill the Florida Keys Mosquito Control Board seat formerly held by Tom McDonald.

The governor’s announcement came the morning of Dec. 19, as Brown joins the five-member board of commissioners. Brown will take her seat on the board for the first meeting of 2024 on Jan. 16 at Marathon City Hall.

“I’m looking forward to it,” Brown told the Keys Weekly on the morning of Dec. 20. “Tom was a really good friend of mine, I’m kind of sad and happy all in one. I miss him already.

I’m excited about the opportunity.

It should be interesting.”

Brown previously served as the executive vice president and chief credit officer for Community Bank of Florida.

A resident Bette Brown. of Monroe County for over 40 years, she was previously appointed to the Citizens Property Insurance Corporation Board of Governors and is a member of the Upper Keys Rotary Club board. Brown earned a bachelor’s degree from Stetson University.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

INAUGURAL TREK RAISES $24,000 TO END ALZHEIMER’S Walk in Islamorada brings a big crowd JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

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ore than 100 participants put on their walking shoes and strolled around Islamorada’s Founders Park at the inaugural Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Dec. 10. Presented by Oasis at the Keys Nursing and Rehab on Plantation Key, more than $24,000 was raised for the Alzheimer’s Association’s care, support and research efforts in the community.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, and more than 11 million family and friends provide unpaid care for them.

Participants in the inaugural Walk to End Alzheimer’s donned purple shirts and held flower pinwheels to raise awareness of the disease. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

NATURE LECTURE SERIES RETURNS 2024 talks take place at Pennekamp State Park

Chris Malinowski, director of research and conservation with Ocean First Institute, will discuss conservation issues affecting the local ecosystem through the lens of sharks and groupers at a March 20 lecture. CHRIS MALINOWSKI/Contributed

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popular nature lecture series returns to Key Largo on Feb. 7. Jack Stein, of the East Pacific Corridor Alliance Foundation, will kick off the 33rd season with a discussion on the diversification of fishes and the oceanic significance of the Isthmus of Panama.

“Delicate Balance of Nature” lectures will resume its weekly in-person format every Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. Eight scheduled presentations will highlight coral reefs, dolphins, monarch butterflies and ecological gardening principles, among other topics, said Paul Rice, park manager.

“One can learn about the conservation issues impacting coastal ecosystems, as well as how marine species use chemical signals for communication and defense. We are grateful to our speakers who make it possible for us to provide highquality interpretive programs for the residents and visitors of Key Largo and the Florida Keys,” Rice said.

Presentations are sponsored by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, as well as the Friends of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State

Park and Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park. The series will be held at the visitor center and aquarium building at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, located at MM 102.6, oceanside.

Since the talks begin after normal operating hours, the park gates will be opened at 7 p.m. for lecture attendees only, until the seating capacity of the visitor center is reached.

Visitors are advised to arrive on time since seating is limited in the auditorium, which is wheelchair accessible. Attendees may wish to bring a cushion for added comfort in seating. Temperatures in the auditorium fluctuate and a sweater or light jacket may be desired. Attendees are asked to accommodate those who are chemically sensitive by not wearing fragrances and other scented products.

There is no charge to enter the park to attend the lectures.

For more information or additional accessibility needs, call Elena Muratori, park services specialist, at 305-676-3786. Visit www.floridastateparks.org for more information on Florida’s state parks.

— Contributed

BRIEFLY Gas prices hit new low Florida gas prices have plummeted to two-year lows. The state average on Dec. 17 was $2.86 per gallon. That’s the lowest daily average price since June 2021. Florida gas prices have been on a free fall, declining 31 cents in the past 17 days. As of Sunday, 88% of Florida gas stations have pump prices below $3 a gallon. Thirty-three percent of Florida filling stations have pumps below $2.75/g.

“Pump prices are falling at the perfect time, as more than 6 million Floridians prepare to take a road trip for the year-end holidays,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA-The Auto Club Group. “Strong domestic gasoline supplies and low oil prices have contributed to the downward pressure on prices at the pump.

Another scam in the Keys On Dec. 11, a Marathon resident reported being scammed out of $10,000. A person claiming to be from PayPal called and asked the victim to take money from the bank and purchase gift cards. The victim then gave the numbers from the gift cards to the scammer. The victim subsequently reported the scam to the bank and the bank advised the victim to report the fraudulent scheme to law enforcement. Detectives are investigating.

During the holidays, everyone should be particularly careful about any emails or phone calls from strangers involving money. If something sounds too good to be true, it most likely is; if someone calls you asking for money, purporting to be from your bank, credit card company, the government, a charitable organization or from anyone else, take the time to check it out carefully before giving anyone money or any personal information.

Plantation Key Center available for events Monroe County’s Plantation Key Community Center, located at 53 High Point Road, is available to the public and organizations to hold events. A wide range of accommodations are available to host meetings, celebrations, gatherings, workshops, training, clubs, school programs, fitness classes, arts and culture and senior and kids’ programs. Audiovisual equipment is also offered. For additional information, email pagidas-naomi@monroecounty-fl.gov or call 305-453-8726.

Laser light show set for Dec. 30 A family-friendly New Year’s celebration and laser light show is set for Saturday, Dec. 30 at Islamorada’s Founders Park. As part of the Beats on the Bay Music Series, festivities begin at 6 p.m. with kids’ activities, face painting, bounce house slide, ax throwing, and music by DJ Remise Lawrence. Food truck fare, beer and wine will also be available for purchase. At 8 p.m., laser lights will illuminate the sky. Admission is free, but parking is $10. Bring seating and find a spot on the great lawn to enjoy the evening. No food or coolers are allowed into the park.

Blessing of the Fleet is scheduled for Jan. 1 The Islamorada Charter Boat Association is holding the annual Blessing of the Fleet on New Year’s Day. All boats can be blessed, and participants are encouraged to decorate their vessels.

Boats will start gathering at 8 a.m. at the oceanside of Whale Harbor Channel. At 8:30 a.m., boats will follow the newly-refurbished Gonfishin V. Boats will monitor channel 79 stating the boat name as they approach the bridge. Boats will be blessed by this year’s honorary clergy.

Those who don’t have a boat can watch the parade from shore with plenty of parking at Whale Harbor and Postcard Inn. An after party will be held at Angler House Marina in Islamorada.

The Islamorada Charter Boat Association promotes the charter boat business and the welfare of its members.

The association also promotes and supports legislation that enhances the goals of the charter boat and related businesses, encourages and supports the fisheries locally and around the world and supports safe-boating standards set forth by the U.S. Coast Guard. For more information contact Capt. Steve Leopold at 305-393-9955.

FKAA water project halts for holidays Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority’s ongoing work to replace old transmission main in Islamorada between MM 80 and MM 84 will be halted during the holidays. Specifically, the work will stop and a rolling lane closure will be suspended between Friday, Dec. 22 and Monday, Jan. 1 to keep traffic moving through Islamorada during the holiday season.

Approximately 19,750 feet of the new protected 36-inch pipe has been laid. Customers with questions can call 833-588-5865 or email community@ fkaa.com. After-hours support is available at 305-296-2454. For more info on traffic advisories for this project visit: https://www.fkaa.com/322/Traffic-Advisories.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

BOCC WANTS A YEAR TO DECIDE EVACUATION Raschein says county has time GWEN FILOSA gwen@keysweekly.com

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lorida Keys leaders want a year to respond to the state’s offers to change hurricane evacuation plans, which could trigger thousands of new building permits for the island chain.

The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners on Dec. 13 voted unanimously to ask state lawmakers to hold off on the issue until leaders throughout the Keys can sort through all the numbers, data and desire of the voters.

The BOCC met in Key Largo, with the Florida legislative session set to start within a month.

“We’re not under the gun to make a decision right away,” said County Mayor Holly Merrill Raschein, who spoke with state officials at FloridaCommerce before the BOCC’s meeting. “I didn’t get any indication that they were going to try to hurry us up. It was actually the opposite.”

County Administrator Roman Gastesi said they could get at least a year to work on the evacuation decision, likely until the start of the 2025 legislative session.

Before tinkering with the Keys’ hurricane evacuation plan, the BOCC wants to study the possible impacts on environmental protection, public safety and quality of life.

“How much can we handle? How many vacant lots truly are there available? Where are they located?” said Commissioner Michelle Lincoln of Marathon, ticking off a few of the questions at hand.

The Keys have vacant lots that are technically online for development, but some are in flood-prone areas and don’t even have roads or utility hookups.

“Until we have all the answers that all of us have asked, it’s impossible for anyone to give an educated decision on this,” Lincoln said. “What we would like this year is to keep Key West in the 24-hour evacuation plan as well as mobile homes to be included in phase one.”

Commissioner Craig Cates, of Key

West, said, “I’ll be pushing to take this to referendum for the citizens to have input.”

In November, the FloridaCommerce, or the Department of Commerce, gave Monroe County a list of options for hurricane evacuation plans, all tied to the possibility of adding perhaps 3,550, or up to nearly 8,000, rate-of-growth-ordinance (ROGO) allocations to the Keys.

‘Consequences’ of development Monroe County and Key West are each designated as an “area of critical state concern,” with policies to control growth that are based on the quickest time to safely evacuate residents and visitors in the case of a hurricane.

In 2012, Florida officials approved a 10-year plan to distribute 3,550 building permits throughout the Keys, from 2013-2023. That was meant to maintain a 24-hour evacuation for permanent residents.

Keys residents are already living with harsh consequences of development, said Dottie Moses, of the Island of Key Largo Federation of Homeowner Associations.

“Over the past 11 years, our traffic has become a nightmare,” Moses said, ticking off a list of problems.

“Our water pipe failed. Our reef is all but dead, our marine life is fading away, our neighborhoods flood with regularity.”

The 120-mile long Florida Keys island chain isn’t just about the county.

It also includes cities with geographical and political differences.

Steve Williams, the city attorney for Marathon, said the Middle Keys city has about 1,000 vacant lots left – but realistically several hundred may be unbuildable.

Marathon needs to take every legal route to prevent the devastating costs of lawsuits from people who are turned down for permits to build on the lots they already own, he said.

The city is asking for new building permits to pocket, if only to protect themselves from being sued.

“We run out in 2024,” Williams said. “We’re a little touchy when it comes to potential takings cases.”

Williams said Marathon needs to preserve a legal defense.

Visit keysweekly.com for the full story

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

1

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3

PETS, PICTURES & PIÑA COLADAS

Keys Kritters holds annual photos with Santa CAROLYN DEPAULA www.keysweekly.com

Y

ou’d be hard pressed to find something Florida Keys residents love more than the trifecta of pets, drinks and island life. It may not be in that order, but Key Largo pet store Keys Kritters knows how to show Upper Keys residents a good time.

A dog’s life for these Keys pets is a charmed life, with Keys Kritters the venerable pet store to serve pet owners’ needs. On Dec. 9 and 10, owners brought their pets for a photo opportunity with Santa. A tropical holiday served as the backdrop, complete with a palm tree.

For a mere $5 donation, guests

got a professional picture with a holiday-themed frame, a pet goodie bag and a piña colada or margarita.

This year the margarita was added as a choice in honor of Margaritaville musician and icon Jimmy Buffett, who passed away earlier this year.

In many people’s minds around the country, Buffett is synonymous with the Florida Keys and its laid-back, boozy and quirky spirit.

All Christmas toys were on sale and there were sales throughout the store as well. Visitors got to see the finches, the parrots, including an African grey who imitates people’s singing, gerbils, mice, rats, turtles, a few snakes, bearded dragons, fish and a few cats who are waiting for the right family.

Bob Hutchinson, a retired plumber who’s been Santa for the

Pets and Piña Coladas event for nearly 20 years (shhh ... don’t tell the kids) looks forward to the event.

“I love animals,” he said.

Felix, a black and white cat with striking green eyes, was rescued from an abusive family and now greets customers and has a forever home with the Keys Kritters family, the Majeska family.

Owner Robbie Majeska loves animals and bringing joy and educating people on pets in his community.

As soon as you step into his store, he will greet you warmly and answer your questions on pets, be it food, the right collar, shampoo and each pet’s necessities.

Stop by Keys Kritters at 100636 Overseas Highway (MM 100, bayside for the locals) and see the plethora of pet items it offers, from specialized treats to over-the-counter treatments to crates.

4

1. A family and their pets get a picture with a cool Santa. KEYS KRITTERS/Via Facebook 2. Snow Pea, a rescue from Tallahassee. CAROLYN DePAULA/Keys Weekly 3. Chihuahuas Sophie and Ricky are ready for pictures with Santa. 4.

Pets and Piña Coladas has seen Santa (Bob Hutchinson) for the past 20 years.

Houston, We have a Rocket Air Problem.

• Big corporations are buying up local familyowned Keys businesses and bussing their employees in from the mainland • Rex Air is a local family-owned business that provides local affordable housing for its employees Rex Houston, Owner

87805 Overseas Hwy., Islamorada State License RA13067300 | County License AC427A

16

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

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.

Elements restaurant December 25th from 4pm to 8pm Enjoy a Holiday Buffet at Element Restaurant Islander Resort, Islamorada $60++ per person | $28++ children under 12

ARTISANAL BREAD SELECTION Focaccia, Lavash Grissini, Whipped Goat Cheese, Boursin Spread, Basil Pesto, Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

CHARCUTERIE COLD SELECTIONS Smoked Trout, Smoked Salmon, Mini Bagels, Red Onion, Capers, Chopped Egg, Dill Chilled Shrimp, Cocktail Sauce, Mustard Aioli Golden Beet, Fennel & Arugula Salad Waldorf and Caesar Salads

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!

HOT SELECTIONS Carvery includes: Honey-baked Ham with Rum Raisin Chutney and Prime Rib with Au Jus & Horseradish Creme Herb-crusted Grouper with Key Lime Butter Sauce and Chicken Marsala Whipped Potatoes and Root Vegetable Medley

SEASONAL DESSERT DISPLAY Reservations made via Open Table or by calling 305.664.2031

Monroe County Sheriff, Rick Ramsay Download the MCSO App Today!

17

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

SANTA VISITS ISLAMORADA

S

anta and Mrs. Claus took a break from the Christmas hustle and bustle and visited a number of Islamorada neighborhoods the evening of Dec. 17. With help from Islamorada Fire Rescue, Santa and Mrs. Claus rode on a sleigh, which sat on a trailer towed by Islamorada Fire Chief Terry Abel. U.S. Marines joined Santa on his journey, collecting unwrapped gifts for the Toys for Tots drive.

During each stop, Santa spent several minutes meeting with children and families. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

305.664.2692 www.loreleicabanabar.com

THURS Dec. 21 Webb & Davidson 5-9 p.m.

FRI Dec. 22 Ty Thurman 5-9 p.m.

Michael Trixx @ Sunset SAT Dec. 23 Sailor Ripley 5-9 p.m.

SUN Dec. 24 Webb & Davidson 3-7 p.m.

MON Dec. 25 Micah 3-7 p.m.

Michael Trixx @ Sunset TUES Dec. 26 Micah 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

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WED Dec. 27 Mark Hill 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Webb & Davidson 5-9 p.m.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

‘JOLLY’ WITHOUT THE ‘JUNK’ Celebrating the holidays with less waste

1

TIFFANY DUONG

W

tiffany@keysweekly.com

hen we think of the holidays, food, family and fun come to mind. But, all that merriment usually comes at a cost to our planet: carbon footprint of travel, resources used on parties, decorations and wrapping paper, and the waste of unwanted gifts. The Center for Biological Diversity (CBD) calls the holidays the most wasteful time of year.

Rather than get grumpier than the Grinch, we wanted to share some tips for a low-impact, high-fun holiday:

Travel Carbon footprint is an important and often overlooked aspect of holiday environmental impacts. For Americans, Thanksgiving and Christmas are the most traveled days of the year. For locals, minimizing our carbon emissions might look like celebrating these holidays on the rock. If your family isn’t near, host a Friendsgiving or Christmas in paradise to keep things Keysey.

For Conchs looking to leave the rock, consider carpooling and taking buses or trains to reduce your personal carbon footprint. According to the BBC, the aviation industry is responsible for roughly 5% of global warming, so the less you fly, the better for the Earth. If you must fly, use Google Flights or similar online services that allow you to compare the carbon emissions of different flight choices.

Parties and decorations In the Keys, we know a thing or two about good parties (see: Fantasy Fest). But, epic parties don’t have to lead to epic waste and clean-up.

CBD estimates that over the

holiday season, American households create 25% more waste – enough to fill 140,000 garbage trucks every week between Thanksgiving and New Years.

To cut down on this, opt for real plates, silverware and cups in your festivities.

Even if it’s more work to wash, it’s better for the Earth and your wallet.

If you like decorating a tree for the holidays, opt for a potted citrus tree or something local that you can plant afterwards in your garden. If you do get a real tree, compost it when the holidays are over.

Instead of buying tinsel, plastic decorations, and other things that quickly get trashed once the party’s over, make traditional garlands out of popcorn, dried fruits, branches and other natural materials. Add a tropical touch with some dried palm fronds.

For holiday lights, use solarpowered instead of plug-ins. CBD estimates that holiday light displays in the U.S. consume enough electricity to power 400,000 homes for a year.

When you swap for renewable energy sources, you’re saving energy and money.

21

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

Food Food is another arena where we can make some sustainable swaps.

The University of Michigan estimates that food accounts for 10% to 30% of a household’s carbon footprint. We can reduce this impact by eating local and in-season. This practice is a good habit all year ‘round.

If you want to do more, eat more plant-based and carbon-light foods. It might feel blasphemous not to serve turkey or ham, but who says traditions can’t evolve? Try serving locally-caught seafood at your festivities instead. After all, we’ve got palm trees for Hanukkah and Santa in swim trunks – why keep what’s on our tables traditional?

Don’t forget reusable bags when shopping for groceries, decorations, etc. This is another good habit to practice all the time. Pro tip: leave bags in your car so they’re always available for last-minute errands.

Gifts For many, the holidays are synonymous with gift-giving. But, we can change how we define gifts to make them more environmentally friendly.

First, try giving experiences instead of things. Often, last-minute giving results in stuff that isn’t necessarily needed. Instead, give an experience together like a nice dinner out, a charter fishing trip, or drag brunch. As a bonus, consider giving eco-conscious experiences like sustainable food tours or citizen-science scuba diving that spread awareness about environmental issues and give people a chance to give back.

You can also donate to someone’s favorite environmental cause in their honor: adopt-a-coral, plant-a-mangrove, etc. — ­ low impact with a high return for the planet.

As with foods, try shopping locally and supporting our great Keys artisans and shops. This reduces the carbon footprint of stuff we do end up buying.

Wrapping With wrapping gifts, aim to use reusable or natural materials instead of fancy gift wrapping paper. CBD estimates that Americans use 30 million trees annually to wrap presents. If each U.S. household swapped to ecofriendly alternatives for just three gifts, that would save enough paper to cover 45,000 football fields.

So, what’s environmentally friendly wrapping? Generally, the fancier the paper, the less it can be recycled. The same goes for metallic bows, tinsel, glitter and decorative tape. Avoid glitter-encrusted anything, confetti, shiny and metallic papers, fancy holiday cards, and most ribbons.

Instead, opt for brown paper bags or kraft paper – simple, chic and easy. Personalize with messages or designs and recycle when done. You can also use newspapers, old maps or cool posters to wrap gifts and give it a vintage, classy feel. If you’ve got kids at home, use some of their old drawings to wrap gifts with a personal touch.

If you want to go the reusable route, upcycle tins and boxes you already have to put gifts in or use tea towels, scarves or other fabrics to wrap.

Instead of plastic bows and ribbons, tie sprigs of greens, pinecones or other natural materials on your gifts.

Use twine, help, leather cord or spare fabric scraps.

A more sustainable mindset With a few of these sustainable swaps, we can turn this season into one of more mindfulness and less waste. Generally, step one is to curb consumption. “Refuse” things you don’t need – like plastic grocery bags, singleuse cups and gifts that might not get used. Avoid food waste and carbonheavy foods. Opt for a staycation instead of a big international trip. Each of these choices helps us take care of our beautiful home while celebrating a low-impact holiday.

2

3

4

5 1. Instead of using plastics and other ‘throw away’ decorations, opt for natural materials. 2. Giving experiences instead of things is a fun way to reduce waste and resource use. 3. Use brown paper bags, boxes and kraft paper to wrap presents in a classic and simple way. 4. Upcycle black and white newspapers with a colorful accent for a classy and eco-chic alternative to wrapping papers.

5. Furoshiki is the Japanese method of wrapping presents with fabrics.

22

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

CONTROLLING THE PET POPULATION Clinic spays & neuters 2,000-plus animals

The team at Whiskers & Paws Forever of Monroe County with Ridley. CONTRIBUTED

H

i friends!

Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” Ridley’s trouble puffs are gone. Poof, gone, no more.

REEF He acted like a THE FOX big baby after the surgery. No other Reef is a red fox foxes here at Pawsithat was saved tive Beginnings in from a fur farm.

He now lives in Key Largo acted like Key Largo with that when we were his human, Nicole spayed or neutered.

Navarro.

I guess Mr. Ridley isn’t such a tough guy after all. Go figure. He acted like such a baby, he had to go to work with mom on Dec.17 and sit in a crate so she could supervise him. Thank goodness no one seems to care about foxes in the workplace in the Upper Keys.

The entire team at Whiskers & Paws Forever of Monroe County goes above and beyond to help the foxes, and I could not be more grateful. Ridley is the third fox they have spayed or neutered, vaccinated and microchipped at no charge to Pawsitive Beginnings. To live in a community where nonprofits work together and help one another out is truly amazing.

Did you know that since they started their clinic in January 2022, they have spayed and neutered 2,029 cats, 169 dogs, one rabbit and three foxes? How

incredible is that? Those cat and dog numbers will likely go up before the end of the year.

Some fun, holiday-themed events in the Upper Keys are upcoming. On Friday, Dec. 22, Florida Keys Brewing Co. will host its Holiday Hat Party at 6 p.m. It’s a little too humid for an “ugly sweater” party, so FKBC is thinking smart with this. Wear your favorite holiday hat or create a new masterpiece to show off. There will be prizes for the most creative, festive and funniest. DJ Fuzzy Buddha will be playing from 6 to 10 p.m. and Tacos Jalisco will be open until 8:30 p.m. This is a free event, so all the more reason to get down there.

On Saturday, Dec. 23, Friends of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park & Dagny Johnson State Park are hosting a campfire program: “Where’s it Bean?” talk and craft at 6 p.m. Meet at the Campfire Circle (near Snook pavilion) for s’mores and a talk about the treasures that wash ashore on Florida beaches and the incredible journey they take. Along with the talk, you have the chance to use one of these special treasures to make your own ornament to take home just in time for the holidays.

Anywho, that’s all for this week.

Next week will be my 2023 recap, and boy oh boy do we have a lot to look back on in 2023. Stay up to date with all things fox by visiting pawsitivebeginnings.org. Until next time, Merry Christmas and happy holidays. Reef, over and out!

SNOWBALL

T

his female Maltese mix is seeking a permanent, loving home. She’s 10 months old and is very shy, according to the Upper Keys Humane Society. She will need time to adjust. If you would like to make Snowball a part of your family, or to learn more about other pets available for adoption, give the Upper Keys Humane Society (UKHS) a call at 305-4513848. UKHS is a not-for-profit no-kill shelter that provides food, shelter, medical care and adoption services for unwanted and abandoned animals.

SAVE THE DATE Thursday, Dec. 21 • Blue Christmas Service at 6 p.m. at Coral Isles Church, 90001 Overseas Highway., Tavernier.

• Morada Way Art Walk from 6 to 9 p.m. at Morada Way Arts & Cultural District, Islamorada.

• Deck the Hulls holiday party and boat show at 5 to 9 p.m. at Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty, Islamorada.

Wednesday, Dec. 27 • Just Older Youth (JOY) Center classes from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Visit justolderyouthinc.org for a complete schedule.

Friday, Dec. 22 • Holiday Hat Party from 6 to 10 p.m. at Florida Keys Brewing Co. Free event.

Sunday, Dec. 31 • New Year’s Eve Seaside Soiree at 6 p.m. at Amara Cay Resort, Islamorada.

Saturday, Dec. 23 • Campfire program “Where’s it Bean?” at 6 p.m. at the Campfire Circle (near Snook Pavilion) at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo.

Monday, Jan. 1 • Blessing of the Fleet at 8:30 a.m. at Whale Harbor Channel, MM 84, oceanside, Islamorada. After party at Angler House Marina.

Saturday, Dec. 30 • Beats on the Bay laser light show with DJ from 6 to 9 p.m. at Founders Park. $10 parking fee. Admission is free. Laser show begins at 8 p.m.

25

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023 Islamorada, Village of Islands REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

CONTRACTOR SERVICES GREEN TURTLE HAMMOCK NATURE PRESERVE SCENIC OVERLOOK PAVILION PROJECT REBID (RFP 23-17) Bid Submittal Deadline Extended: 3:00 p.m. January 10, 2024 Islamorada, Village of Islands is seeking formal proposals from qualified contractors to construct a 2,400 square-foot two-story Pavilion with a restroom, stairs and an ADA ramp to the second level, a parking lot and driveway, structural foundation and platform, landscaping and associated plumbing with connection to an existing wastewater grinder station inlet.

Christmas Eve Service 10 a.m. Advent IV Service with Eucharist 6 p.m. Family-friendly Service with Eucharist

Christmas Day 10 a.m. Service with Eucharist St. James the Fisherman Episcopal Church

OPEN MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATION, INC.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2023 at 9:00 A.M. FKEC TAVERNIER HEADQUARTERS, BOARD ROOM Should Committee Meetings be scheduled, they will commence first, followed by the Regular Board Meeting.

BESTSELLERS • CHILDREN'S SECTION LOCAL AUTHORS • GIFTS & GIFT CARDS

This is a rebid of RFP 23-11 for which all proposals were rejected based on good cause in that all proposals exceeded the project estimate budgeted amount based on the engineers estimate of $1.1 million.

Through this RFP, contractors shall provide proposals for two alternatives for the project: 1) the pavilion with roof as designed in the plans and, 2) the pavilion without the columns and roof on the second level. It is the Village’s preference to construct the pavilion with the roof as designed.

The Green Turtle Hammock Nature Preserve, located at 81224 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL, is open to the public from 8:00am to 5:00pm daily. Interested parties are encouraged to visit the Nature Preserve during the hours the preserve is open to the public.

Go to https://www.islamorada.fl.us/bids.aspx?bidID=17 to view and download the bid documents.

Islamorada Village of Islands The Village of Islamorada has implemented JustFOIA to manage public records and lien search requests.

As the system is used, it will build up an archive of past requests so the public can search the archives at any time.

Bookmark the page for future use as requests will be responded to through the JustFOIA portal.

Verbal, emailed, or telephone requests will be entered into the system. The requester will receive a request number and security key to check on the status of their request and can download responsive documents.

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26

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

FLORIDA KEYS EATS

HELLO WINTER, AKA SHRIMP SEASON

A tasty shrimp boil. SAMANTHA DELLILO/Keys Weekly From left, Whitney MacEachern, Cirque Salon Studios owner and Dete Israel, Salon Dete owner, present raffle proceeds to Kate Banick, Good Health Clinic executive director, and Brittany Parker, Good Health Clinic program and development manager, with $1,040 in raffle proceeds. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS BY ALAN MACEACHERN AND DETE ISRAEL.

SALON’S HOLIDAY SHOPPING EVENT SUPPORTS LOCAL CLINIC

C

irque Salon Studios in Key Largo held its sixth annual Shop, Jingle and Mingle event on Dec. 3. The pop-up holiday shop featured over 20 local vendors and a popular raffle with proceeds benefiting the Good Health Clinic. Cirque Salon Studios, located at Tradewinds Plaza at MM 101, provides studio spaces for health, beauty and wellness professionals.

— Contributed

Natalie Davidson, of Salon Dete, gets shoppers, like Maureen McDonough, into the holiday spirit with her hair tinseling service.

Autumn Hager, of Take Stock in Children, shares information while signing up potential mentors.

T

here are two famous quotes from the film “Forrest Gump,” of which one is “the box of chocolates” line we all know and SAMANTHA love. The other is DELLILO when Bubba says, is a Keys native who “Shrimp is the has a passion for all fruit of the sea. things food. She runs You can barbecue the local food blog, it, boil it, broil it, “Florida Keys Eats.” bake it, sauté it...”

He goes on to list about 30 more cooking styles.

If you notice when driving over the bridges of the Keys during this cooler weather, you’ll see many boats out with lights in the water. These boats are shrimping, one of the best recreational activities we have down here, and locals love it. What do you do when you find yourself with pounds of shrimp? I have to call in the cavalry and hope they have appetites.

I know the Keys is as south as it goes, but we aren’t actually considered southerners to most of America. I mean do you blame them? Good sweet tea is rare down here. A real southern low country shrimp boil, you’ll be more familiar with in Louisiana and the surrounding areas. However, just because we’re in the Keys doesn’t mean we can’t have a little seafood boil ourselves. Find the biggest pot you can and invite friends and family over.

Now you know the saying “less is more?” That is not the case in a seafood boil. More is more. As much seasoning as you think is enough, triple that. I personally like my boil with corn on the cob, red onions, red potatoes,

garlic bulbs, andouille sausage and of course the shrimp. Many people add in other varieties of shellfish as well.

A shrimp boil might seem like a set-it-and-forget-it type of deal but that’s not the case. Everything needs to be put in through stages. I start with sautéing loads of butter, onion, garlic and massive amounts of herbs until fragrant. Then I fill the pot with as much beer as I have in the house, orange juice and the remainder of the pot with water. I also add in loads of Old Bay and multiple packs of seafood boil seasoning. The liquid needs to be as flavorful as possible to infuse all the star ingredients.

Once boiling, add in quartered potatoes since they take much longer than everything else. I let that boil for roughly 10 minutes. Next, I add in all the ingredients you have left except the shrimp. I let that roll for another 10 minutes. The final stage is the shrimp; remember, they don’t take very long so don’t overcook them. I’m talking maybe two minutes of boiling time. In the real south, they leave the heads on the shrimp or crawfish; I do or don’t, but I always leave the shells on – that’s where the flavor is. I then set up a massive table covered in plastic and newspaper. I put out multiple ramekins of melted butter and tons of lemon wedges. I pour the seafood boil on top and immediately drown it in more butter, fistfuls of parsley, tons of Old Bay and lemon squeezes.

My whole family gathers around and we get goin’. I make sure there’s plenty of garbage cans so everyone can dispose of their shells as they go.

Whether you’re catching your own shrimp while the gettin’s good or just headed to the fisheries to buy some, get out of your comfort zone and try a southern seafood boil.

27

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

CHRISTMAS ECHO

Native evergreens of the Florida Keys Dahoon holly flowers. UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA IFAS/Contributed

A

s the holiday season unfolds in the Florida Keys, a unique blend of festive cheer paints the streets and homes of our coastal paradise.

While some residents delight in adorning their palms with twinkling lights, others yearn for the timeless allure of pines and holly trees to illuminate their yards. Pines and holly trees, synonymous with the yuletide season, are often associated with the Northern Hemisphere. However, here in the Florida Keys, nature also

embraces these evergreen emissaries, ensuring that the magic of Christmas knows no geographical bounds.

Pines and holly are evergreen trees. An “evergreen” refers to a plant that retains its leaves or needles throughout the year, regardless of the changing seasons. The term “evergreen” symbolizes endurance, vitality and resilience. In many cultures, holly trees have protective properties. Placing holly branches in the home offers protection from evil spirits and brings good luck. In Christian traditions, the spiky leaves of holly are often associated with the crown of thorns placed on Jesus’ head during the crucifixion.

Pines belong to the Pinaceae family and are a diverse and economically significant group of coniferous trees. They are characterized by needle-like leaves, typically bundled in clusters, and the production of cones. Holly trees are in the family Aquifoliaceae and belong to the genus Ilex. Unlike the coniferous trees in the Pinaceae family, holly trees are broad-leaved evergreens known for their glossy, spiny-toothed leaves and vibrant berries. Among the native pine and holly found in the Keys are: • South Florida slash pine is a medium- to large-sized tree with a dense

growth form and a height reaching 70 to 80 feet; this pine features needles in clusters of two or three. Its ovoid to cylindrical cones, ranging from 2 to 6 inches, add to its distinctive MARIA appearance. This QUIRICO pine is present is the University of in Big Pine Key, Florida, IFAS Monroe Cudjoe Key and County Extension environmental horti- several other Lower Keys. culture.

• The Dahoon holly is a small- to medium-sized tree with glossy elliptical leaves, small white-greenish flowers, and bright red berries measuring 2 to 4 inches; it adds a vibrant touch, especially in winter, making it an appealing ornamental tree. Growing up to 40 feet, it adapts to wet and well-drained soils. The flowers are typically dioecious, meaning individual trees are male or female. This tree is in mainland woodlands, Cudjoe Key and Plantation Key.

South Florida slash pine is found in the Lower Keys.

Clarifying misconceptions • The not-so-pine Australian pine: The common name “Australian pine” is misleading because trees in the genus Casuarina are not pines. Casuarinas belong to the family Casuarinaceae and are more closely related to the she-oaks.

• The not-so-holly Brazilian pepper tree: The name “Florida Holly” attached to the Brazilian pepper tree is misleading. The Brazilian pepper tree is neither holly nor native to Florida. It is an invasive species, threatening the local ecosystem.

The slash pine and Dahoon holly in the Florida Keys embody the spirit of Christmas with their evergreen charm, echoing the timeless magic of the season in this tropical paradise.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023 OPINION

WHERE’S THE REGARD FOR AN AREA OF CRITICAL CONCERN? History shows the Keys today aren’t what they used to be

T

he Areas of Critical State Concern program was created by the Florida Environmental Land and Water Management Act of 1972. According FLORIDA to its description, KEYS “The program was HISTORY intended to protect resources and public WITH facilities of major BRAD statewide signifiBERTELLI cance, within the An author, designated geospeaker, Florida graphic areas, from Keys historian and uncontrolled devel- Honorary Conch. opment that would His latest book, “Florida Keys cause substantial deterioration of such History with Brad Bertelli, Volume resources.”

1,” shares fasciIn 1975, the nating glimpses Florida legislature into the rich and sometimes surdesignated the prising histories of Florida Keys as an the Florida Keys. area of critical concern because of the island chain’s environmental sensitivity and mounting development pressures.

The idea was to protect the environment, improve nearshore water quality, promote public land acquisition and ensure that local populations could be

safely evacuated in case of hurricanes.

The other objective was to provide affordable workforce housing.

Fast forward nearly 50 years, and in 2023, discussions are underway to effectively abort the designation assigned to the Florida Keys — it being an area of critical concern — and disregard the “moratorium” on new construction. On the contrary, the new plan being bandied about is to call off the watchdogs and allow for the construction of as many as 8,000 new homes and businesses.

The lesson learned has been contrary to the messages sent back by the environment. The Florida Keys are not what they were 50 years ago — nor is the Florida Reef, for that matter. Coral reefs are struggling worldwide due to coastal development, poor water quality, overfishing, disease, bleaching events and direct human impacts like ship groundings and being pummeled by dropped anchors.

According to Mote Marine, “From 2009-2018, the world’s coral reefs lost 14% of their coral — a blow to fisheries that depend on coral reef habitats, coastal communities that need corals’ protection from storm waves and economies supported by coral reefs’ services worth $2.7 trillion per year worldwide.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

29

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

WHEN LOCAL BUSINESSES ADVERTISE THEY WORK WITH LOCAL FACES HISTORY CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE These losses add up to more coral than you can find on Australia’s reefs today.”

It is a fraction of the number of corals lost for all of those other reasons, decade after decade. Over the last 40 years, 90% of the Florida Reef has died off. Diving and snorkeling in the Florida Keys are not what they used to be. When you hear old-timers talk, they describe a vibrant reef rich with biodiversity. The scientists do, too. As for biodiversity, or its lack thereof, it is not just the divers who talk about how things used to be; the fishermen do, too, because fishing is not what it used to be.

Whether it is the backcountry, the reef or offshore, the numbers of fish are a fraction of what they once were — ask a fishing guide or anyone who has grown up in the Keys. Twenty-five years ago, local restaurants served fresh local fish. In 2023, more and more restaurants will serve frozen, imported fish and fish not native to local waters. Twenty years ago, when I spent a decade waiting tables in a local seafood restaurant, serving people who had spent the day fishing and brought their catch to “hook and cook” was a daily occurrence. The amount of fish tossed to the Dumpster every night was remarkable.

In the old days, people talked about night fishing on the bridges and sleeping on the road because there was so little traffic. The number of cars traveling up and down the highway and over the bridges has increased over the years. The Overseas Highway, the lone stretch of asphalt bridging the mainland to Key West, needs work, and driving along it can feel like a video game as you navigate potholes, orange warning cones and construction projects.

Some of those construction projects include the update to the freshwater pipeline, which is, like the highway, a lone conduit connecting the mainland to the island chain, and already under more pressure than it can handle, as was indicated when three sections of the pipeline burst earlier this year. At least it is being updated, a project that is also contributing to the traffic problem.

As the number of hotels and resorts has increased or expanded in the last decade or two, the more heads that have arrived to fill those beds, the more crowded the twolane highway becomes and the more stress put on what is an already

shaky (and pot-holey) infrastructure.

Already, rising tides are flooding lowlying areas, and the county needs nearly $2 billion to combat the encroaching effects of climate change.

On more than one occasion, the Snake Creek Bridge, the last of the drawbridges connecting one island to another, has become stuck in some terrible position, allowing traffic to go nowhere. Just last week, a single-car accident knocked the power grid out in the Lower Keys.

When essentially one electrified line connects the islands to a power source, all it takes is one small snip to sever the entire connection — which happens periodically (and did again on Dec. 14).

The primary industry in the Florida Keys is hospitality, and those working in the resorts, bars and restaurants are increasingly commuting from the mainland because housing in the Keys has become untenable — producing additional daily traffic. My wife and I were lucky enough to buy a 1,075-square-foot house the last time the market crashed. Thankfully, we seized the opportunity when it presented itself, as we could not afford the rent and uncertainty that rental properties present.

The solution, it seems, is to apply additional pressure to an environment in significantly worse shape than it was in 1975 when the Florida Keys became an area of critical concern. Cut down more trees and hammocks and replace them with asphalt and concrete to accommodate second and third homes for well-off families. More and more, the Keys are becoming a home and playground for the wealthy who run their boats and wave runners across seagrass flats, leaving their prop scars behind like entitled signatures.

Continue pressuring the local shallows with events like lobster mini-season, which was introduced to attract people during what used to be the slow summer months. At what point is enough enough?

My family is not from the Keys, and I have no children who will see the Keys long after I have gone on to whatever comes next. Hopefully, my history stories will be around and help those interested in these things learn the “this is how it started” part of the story. While I will never know, I hope the story has a happy ending.

History, however, does not paint a pretty picture.

Upper Keys Weekly JILL MIRANDA BAKER 305.304.0052

Marathon Weekly PATTI CHILDRESS 305.731.9628

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 21, 2023

ARTISTIC ORNAMENTS Festive creations awarded during Holiday Fest CAROLYN DEPAULA www.keysweekly.com

Shay Morris’ ‘Christmas in the Keys’ ornament.

Jul Jankowski’s ‘Flight Festivities’ ornament.

T

he joy of the holidays is a constellation of music, food, parades and visual delights, which is most notably the holiday tree and the ornament auction at Islamorada’s Holiday Fest on Dec. 1.

Islamorada’s favorite holiday tradition wouldn’t be the same without the focus on art, which the ornaments auction encapsulated. Judy Hull, Islamorada Chamber of Commerce executive director, said the holiday ornament auction is an annual favorite.

“This year was no exception,” Hull said. “The ornaments were spectacular, and we are so incredibly grateful to our amazing art community for supporting our event.”

Nearly 60 artists lent their talents to adorning the orbs. These ornaments were judged by a panel who selected the best in several categories. Six days before the event itself, the online auction kicked off and anyone near or far from Islamorada could bid on these one-of-akind holiday ornaments. Bidding ended on the night of Holiday Fest at 9 p.m.

Artist Jul Jankowski won Best Holiday Tropical Bird Theme with her ornament

“Flight Festivities.”

“Painting on a sphere isn’t easy, but it does force you to think outside the box ... or canvas,” Jankowski said. “Being a part of the Islamorada Chamber’s ornament display/auction is always a treat. It’s a chance for the serious artist to be funny, whimsical or lighthearted and (the auction) raises a good chunk of cash for the chamber to continue doing all the great things they do.”

Old World Gallery’s Cindy King won the People’s Choice Award with her “Meet me Under the Mistletoe” angler fish. The angler fish, a menacing creature normally not seen but in the depths of the ocean, has an elongated luminescent promontory jutting out of its head resembling a fishing rod which it uses to attract prey, hence its moniker. In King’s reimagined version, the angler fish is golden, a touch friendlier with its marbly eyes, and sports a mistletoe as a lure at the end of its rod.

Hundreds of bidders competed in the online and live auction, and the lucky winners got to bring a piece of Islamorada artistry and holiday spirit home with them.

Holiday Fest Ornament Show Winners ‘Meet me Under the Mistletoe’ by Cindy King won the People’s Choice.

‘The Joyful Announcement’ by Osvaldo Fernandez Diaz.

• Best Traditional Holiday Theme – Osvaldo Fernandez Diaz • Best Adherence to Parade Theme (“Happy Holidays and Best Fishes”) – Monica Bankowski • Best Keys Holiday Theme (aquatic) – Shay Morris • Best Keys Holiday Theme (terrestrial) – Susi Trottnow • Best Children’s Holiday Theme – Janice Nagel • Best Use of Humor – Barbara Bernstein • Best Animal Holiday Theme – Julie Austin • Best Holiday Sea Creature – Brandon Bennett • Best Holiday Tropical Bird Theme – Jul Jankowski • Most Creative Use of Talent – Amy JoAn • Best Ocean “FantaSea” Theme – Ginger Hill • Best in Show – Jason Barth • People’s Choice – Cindy King • Honorable Mention – Bree Hayhoe-Geiss

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3

DECEMBER 21, 2023 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

DEC. 21

THE SCOREBOARD Team

Sport

Opponent

Date

Result

Marathon

Girls Soccer

Downtown Doral

12/11

W, 5-1

Coral Shores

Boys Basketball

Homestead High

12/11

L, 81-66

Key West

Boys Soccer

North Miami Beach

12/11

W, 2-1

Marathon

Boys Soccer

Downtown Doral

12/11

L, 8-0

Coral Shores

Boys Soccer

Westminster

12/12

L, 6-0

Coral Shores

Girls Basketball

Marathon

12/12

W, 44-42

Coral Shores

Boys Basketball

Marathon

12/12

W, 70-61

Marathon

Boys Soccer

International Studies 12/13

W, 4-1

Coral Shores

Girls Soccer

True North

12/13

L, 6-0

Marathon

Girls Basketball

LaSalle

12/13

W, 49-45

Marathon

Girls Soccer

International Studies 12/13

W, 8-0

Marathon

Boys Soccer

Westland Hialeah

12/14

Canceled

Coral Shores

Boys Basketball

Braddock

12/14

L, 81-43

Marathon

Boys Basketball

Homestead High

12/14

L, 99-73

Coral Shores

Girls Basketball

Divine Savior

12/15

W, 34-8

Marathon

Girls Basketball

First Baptist Academy

12/15

L, 50-34

Coral Shores

Boys Basketball

Marathon

12/15

W, 71-53

Marathon

Girls Soccer

Keys Gate

12/15

L, 4-1

Coral Shores

Girls Soccer

Miami Country Day

12/15

L, 7-1

Key West

Boys Soccer

St. Brendan

12/15

W, 8-0

Key West

Boys Basketball

Westminster

12/16

L, 76-59

Coral Shores

Boys Basketball

Somerset Silver Palms

12/16

L, 73-63

Marathon

Boys Basketball

Coral Park

12/16

L, 76-50

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

THIS WEEK

Rain

BANKS

Senior, Marathon Soccer

Rain has been on fire, leading the team in goals. She is an incredible athlete, and she makes a great leader on and off the field.”

— Cathy Warner, Marathon head coach

DEC. 21

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

Date

School

Sport

Opponent

Start Time

12/21

Key West

Boys Soccer

Westland Hialeah

4 p.m.

12/21

Coral Shores

Girls Basketball

Key West

4 p.m.

12/21

Coral Shores

Boys Basketball

Key West

7 p.m.

12/22

Coral Shores

Girls Basketball

@ Ransom

6:30 p.m.

12/22

Coral Shores

Boys Basketball

@ Ransom

5 p.m.

12/22

Key West

Boys Basketball

@ Keys Gate

5 p.m.

12/22

KW & CS

Wrestling

District Duals @ FL Christian

4:30 p.m.

12/23

Key West

Boys Basketball

Homestead High

6:30 p.m.

12/28

Key West

Boys Basketball

Whitman Hanson Regional

6 p.m.

9

goals in the last three games

Marathon’s Rain Banks has been a member of the Lady Fins varsity soccer team since 2017 when she made her debut on the pitch as a sixth-grader. Since then, she has become synonymous with success. Often enduring double- and triple-team coverage, Banks still manages to make big plays for the Fins. Last week, Banks scored nine goals in just three games, five of which came in a single match. An honor student at Marathon, Banks is a three-sport athlete and has been a team captain for three seasons with the Fins. For her fantastic on-field performance as well as her legacy of leadership, Rain Banks is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

Photo by: TRACY McDONALD/Keys Weekly

ON THE COVER The season is just a few weeks old, but Marathon lifters like Justice Lee, Ella Dunn and their Upper Keys and Key West counterparts are already starting to shatter personal records. See page 7. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

4

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / DECEMBER 21, 2023 SPORTS WRITER

The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West.

Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.

tracy mcdonald fled to the Keys from the frozen mountains of Pennsylvania hours after graduating from college and never looked back. She is a second-generation coach and educator, and has taught in the public school system for over 25 years. She and her husband met at a beginning teacher meeting in 1997 and have three children born and raised in Monroe County. In her free time, McDonald loves flea markets, historical fiction and long runs in the heat.

PODCAST HOST

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Managing Editor / Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Director of Sales

Manuela Carrillo Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com

Business Development

Patti Childress patti@keysweekly.com Jill Miranda Baker jill@keysweekly.com Stephanie Mitchell stephanie@keysweekly.com

Production Manager

Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Graphic Design

Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

sean mcdonald grew up in Miami and moved to the Keys in 1997. He has spent the last 25 years teaching physical education and coaching virtually every sport for Florida Keys kids ages 4 to 18. If you are reading this and live or lived in the Florida Keys, he has probably taught, coached, or coached against someone you know.

MARKET EDITORS

Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844

Se habla español

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

BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050.

APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

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

Photo by BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

FROM DOLPHIN TO PANTHER Marathon’s Dylan Ziels commits to Palm Beach State College

M

arathon’s ace on the mound will have a new home next year, as senior hurler Dylan Ziels this week announced his commitment to play for the Palm Beach State College Panthers on an athletic scholarship.

A multi-year varsity starter for the Fins, Ziels topped state and national strikeout leaderboards during the 2023 spring season, at one point claiming the top national ranking for strikeouts (90) among anyone with fewer than 40 innings pitched.

“Big things are ahead for Dylan,” wrote Marathon coach Joey Gonzalez in a social media post. “He believed and put in the work day in and day out, and the end result (is) an athletic scholarship to live out his childhood dream. To say I’m proud of him is an understatement.”

The Dolphins plan to hold a signing ceremony on Friday, Feb. 22 at 5:15 p.m. before the team’s home rivalry game against Miami Country Day.

DECEMBER 21, 2023 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

CONCHS TAKE SECOND IN HOME TOURNEY Keys grapplers head to District Duals this week.

L

ocal wrestlers took to the mats Dec. 15 and 16 for the annual Key West wrestling tournament held in Bobby Menendez Gymnasium. Perennial powerhouse Key West took second place from a pool of nine teams, outscored only by larger 3A Olympic Heights from Boca Raton.

The 1A Conchs had three individual champions in their home match. James Searcy was the 138-lb. champion, taking first place from a pool of eight athletes. In the 157-lb. class, Alfredo Corrales was the tournament champion, winning seven matches to seal the top spot. Heavyweight Ralph Riche beat out a pool of 11 wrestlers to win the 285-lb. class.

Additional top-three finishers for Key West included Prometheus Delacerda, taking second place at 120 pounds, Abram Canet in second at 132, Dost Bakhtiyorov in third at 144, Jason Flynn in second at 150 and Tristan Yokoyama, who took second place at 215.

Key West was not the only Monroe County team to have a strong showing at the tourney. Coral Shores finished in sixth place overall with some solid placements. Steven DeRobertis was the runner-up at 106 pounds and teammate Jayden Angel was third at 138.

Key West’s girls used the tournament to compete against Florida Christian School in a dual meet. Sheyla Figueira and Natalie Arguello split their matches 1-1 against the Patriots as they head into District Duals this week.

Both Keys teams are classified at 1A and will compete at District Duals on Dec. 22 at Florida Christian High School.

From top: James Searcy Cyler Mitchell Alfredo Corrales Photos by GRACE ANDREW/Keys Weekly. See more tournament photos at keysweekly.com.

5

6

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / DECEMBER 21, 2023

BAXTER SIGNS LETTER OF INTENT Key West’s lacrosse star will take her talents to Kenyon College

O

n Dec. 12, Ella Baxter became the second Conch lacrosse player to sign a letter of intent to play at the collegiate level. Baxter signed to play at Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio. Ranked 20th in the nation, the Owls won the NCAC championship and made it to the third round of the NCAA tournament last season.

As a Key West athlete, Baxter earned multiple honors, including Rookie of the Year, Offensive MVP, MVP and Player of the Year with a full season of prep lacrosse to go.

Coach Marissa Giacopuzzi, who has been a part of Baxter’s lacrosse career since 2013, praised her on behalf of the Conchs coaching staff.

“We are so proud of your commitment and perseverance,” she said. “You had a goal, you set your heart on it and you didn’t stop. You have been instrumental in the growth of lacrosse here in Key West, and undoubtedly helped put us on the map for all of Florida to recognize. You are paving the way for so many other young female lacrosse athletes.”

Giacopuzzi went on to sum up Baxter’s storied career with three words: “destined for greatness.”

The senior will spend one more season in crimson and gray, undoubtedly adding to her 100-plus goals for the Lady Conchs this spring.

Top: Surrounded by friends and teammates, Ella Baxter signs a letter of intent on Dec. 12 to play for Kenyon College. KEY WEST LACROSSE BOOSTERS/Contributed Right: Ella Baxter celebrates the team’s 2023 district championship victory over Ransom Everglades, in which she scored her 110th goal. MICHAEL BLADES/Contributed

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DECEMBER 21, 2023 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

ROSS, LEE CONTINUE TO FLEX ON COMPETITION With one month to go before district meets, Keys lifters are looking stronger than ever.

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arathon traveled to Key West on Dec. 13 to compete in a girls weightlifting meet. Marathon won the Olympic event 53-30 and the traditional event 59-25.

The Fins had six double winners in Ella Dunn (101 pounds), Ashley Rasmussen (110), Sierra Earnhardt (119), Mikkel Ross (129), Justice Lee (183) and Sabrina Schofield (199). Marathon’s Ava Merryman (traditional) and Key West’s Shylo Sanchez (Olympic) split the wins in the 139-lb. weight class. Double winners for the home team were Dazmine Jenkins (154), Kaylee Matas (169) and Claire Boysen (unlimited).

Ross and Lee continue to dominate a talented field of athletes. Lee set a new personal best in the snatch, lifting 140 pounds. Ross set three personal records at the event, including a 140-pound snatch lift, 165-pound clean and jerk and a 165-pound bench, nearly 135% of her body weight.

Coral Shores headed on the road on Dec. 13, participating in a quad meet hosted by Gulliver Prep. The Lady ’Canes won both events with double wins from Mallory Hughes (101 pounds), Kali Gomer (129), Madison Tillman (154) and Sydney Eysenbach (unlimited). Rachel Rusch picked up a win in the traditional event at the 110-pound classification.

Marathon and Coral Shores, classified as 1A, will participate in their district meet on Jan. 27. Key West will attend the 2A meet on Jan. 25.

Marathon’s Justice Lee. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

140lbs Personal record in snatch lift

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KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / DECEMBER 21, 2023

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DECEMBER 21, 2023 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

CAUGHT IN A HURRICANE Coral Shores basketball squads beat Marathon in Upper Keys showdown

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hough the season series aren’t over, the Upper Keys have the upper hand so far in the 2023-24 basketball season.

Coral Shores’ girls won a pair of games last week, improving to a Keys-best 5-1 this season. Win number one was against Marathon on Dec. 12. The ’Canes edged out their closest neighbor by 2 points, winning 44-42 at home. Senior Brooke Mandozzi dropped 26 points on the Fins, plus a trio of steals. Lea Castellanos scored 8 points and added 4 steals, and Makayla Hahn had 7 points and 4 steals. Niveah Howard had 10 rebounds to help elevate the Hurricanes over the Fins in the district win.

Marathon’s Marti Kilbourne scored 14, Daysi Williams and Elena Eubank scored 8 each and Kayesha Christian and Payton Junker each added 3 in the close loss.

On Dec. 15, Divine Savior made the trip to Tavernier – and the ’Canes sent them home with a stingy 8 points. Mandozzi had the hot hand again, with 18 plus 5 rebounds and 6 steals in just 16 minutes of play. Jazmyn Blassio and Alex Burson had strong games coming off the bench. Burson had 4 points, 4 assists and 3 rebounds for the ’Canes, while Blassio stole the ball 4 times in the lopsided 34-8 win.

The Lady Fins played three games last week, beginning with the district loss to Coral Shores. The tide turned for the Fins the following night against LaSalle as Marathon bested the Lions 49-45. Eubank had the high score in that matchup, scoring 16 points. Kilbourne had 13, Williams had 10, Christian added 7 and Junker put up 3 in the win. On Dec. 15, Marathon fell to First Baptist Academy 50-34. Kilborne scored 14 and Eubank had 13 in the loss.

Coral Shores’ boys opened the week with a road loss to Homestead High School, losing 81-66 to the larger 5A Broncos on Dec. 11. The ’Canes had better luck the following night with district and county rival Marathon in a much-anticipated home meeting of the two teams. Coral Shores edged out the Dolphins, earning a 70-61 win. Isaac Rivera and Donovan Thiery had 22 points each. Ayden Lane scored 16 and Keegan Fish added 8 for Coral Shores.

Head coach Tony Simons praised Rivera, who he credited with lifting the ’Canes as he returned to the court from an early-season knee injury.

“His aggressiveness and leadership helped spur on a solid team effort from our players,” Simons said. “Having three guys in double figures also speaks to the team contribution we are getting on the offensive end. Combine that with good defense, and rebounding proved to be the difference.”

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1: Coral Shores’ Ayden Lane (4) goes vertical to block a shot from Marathon’s Daeshawn Holmes (3).

2: The Hurricanes’ AJ Johnson (25) puts up a shot against Dolphin Daeshawn Holmes (3) 3: Coral Shores’ Gabriela Delgado (22) drives to the basket.

4: Marathon’s Adrian Cruz (2) shoots the ball.

5: The Hurricanes’ Donovan Thiery (0) secures a rebound against the Dolphins’ Carlos Lezcano (10).

6: Coral Shores Isaac Rivera (3) goes for the layup.

7: Coral Shores Donovan Thiery (0) goes for an easy 2-pointer.

8: Dolphin Elena Eubank, right, contests a layup from guard Makayla Hann (1).

9: The Hurricanes’ Grace Leffler (30) works her way through the Dolphin defense.

10: Coral Shores forward Grace Leffler (30) lays up the ball.

11: Coral Shores’ Brooke Mandozzi (3) puts in a short range jumper.

12: Marathon’s Marti Kilbourne, left, scrambles for a loose ball with Coral Shores’ freshman Alexandria Burson.

Photos by DOUG FINGER/ Keys Weekly. See more game photos at keysweekly.com.

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Marathon was no pushover for the ’Canes, though. Adrian Cruz and Xavier Grant had 22 points each while Carlos Lezcano led in rebounds with 7. Daeshawn Holmes added 6 rebounds and 3 blocked shots for the Fins.

Both teams went on to participate in the annual Palmer Trinity Holiday Classic against a field of eight South Florida teams, most of which participate in larger classifications than Marathon and Coral Shores. The ’Canes picked up one win at the tourney, against Marathon, beating them 71-53. Marathon did not improve its record, but, according to Dolphins’ head coach Jim Murphy, did gain some worthwhile experience.

“We were able to score this weekend, but had a tough time competing with larger schools with deep benches,” he said. “Tough tournaments like this will definitely help us in the long run.”

The Lady Conchs have not played a game since Dec. 2 as they continue to hunt for their first win. A much-anticipated game against Barron Collier was canceled last week. They will have one more chance to get into the win column when they head to Tavernier to take on Coral Shores on Dec. 21.

Key West’s boys did have a chance to play last week, playing Westminster in Miami to a 76-59 loss. James Osborne did his best to down the Warriors, scoring 20 points and grabbing 6 rebounds. David Aviles had 15 points and freshman DeMarcus Deroche put in 6, but a stacked Westminster team, ranked fourth in their division and 14th in the state, proved too much for the Conchs to pick up a road win. Key West is scheduled to play three games in three days, beginning on Dec. 21 with a trip to Tavernier to play Coral Shores.

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KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / DECEMBER 21, 2023

Conch boys catch fire with two-game road win streak.

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BANKS’ OFFENSIVE ONSLAUGHT SPARKS PAIR OF FIN WINS 2

he Lady Fins soccer team picked up its first win of the season on Dec. 11 against Downtown Doral, celebrating senior night in style with the 5-1 victory. Senior Rain Banks had a hat trick and Jordan MacDonald and Allison Helms had 1 goal each.

Two nights later, they picked up win number two at International Studies. Banks authored an offensive onslaught, scoring 5 in the mercy-rule win with 2 assists by Mackenzie Budi and 1 each by Shilo Yeider, Hannah Davis and MacDonald. Budi scored 1 unassisted, Davis scored on a penalty kick and Maeve Merryman scored 1 with an assist from Davis.

Coach Cathy Warner was pleased with her team’s midseason stride, saying, “They are coming together as a squad.

As we get into the more difficult matchups later this season we will need to play hard and hold our positions to continue to have success. I love the feeling of a team they have put together.”

The Lady Fins were not able to make it a three-game streak, however. They fell to district rival Keys Gate 4-1 on Dec. 15. Banks scored the lone Dolphin goal in that game on a free kick.

Marathon’s boys played at home on Dec. 11 against an exceptionally talented Downtown Doral unit. The Fins lost 8-0, but found their groove two nights later at Kendall Soccer Complex, where they defeated International Studies 4-1. The Fins battled the elements in addition to the winless Eagles, who managed just 1 goal against Marathon goalkeeper Tiago Rivero. Rivero stopped all but one of the 28 shots on goal from the Eagles, with the only goal scored coming from a direct kick from the penalty kick line three minutes into the game. After that, it was all Fins. Fab Louis Jeune scored 1 unassisted and Jayden Rosete expanded the lead following a penalty corner. Oscar Cardona scored 2, 1 from a direct penalty kick and the other coming off of an unassisted cross shot. A third game scheduled for last week was canceled, bringing the Fins’ record to 4-2-1 with just one game before the holiday break.

The Lady Conchs did not play last week, with the weather dampening their hopes to even out their record. The boys, however, caught fire in a pair of road wins beginning on Dec. 11 at North Miami Beach. The Chargers struck first, taking an early lead in the first half just before the water break.

Both teams battled for the remainder of the half, with North Miami hanging on to their lead until just before the halftime whistle. Bryden Parson fired off a shot that deflected to Finn O’Hearn, who capitalized on it by scoring the equalizer and his first varsity goal.

The Conchs scored the go-ahead goal just after the second half water break when Niko Sulak endured a foul in the box. The Charger keeper managed to save the shot, but the goal-hungry Conchs descended on the net. Emmanuel Innocent set up Bryden Parson with an assist, resulting in Parson’s first varsity goal and a Conchs lead. The Chargers did not make it easy for the Conchs, but Key West coach Nic Farrar credited the preservation of the win to fantastic play from defenders Ricky Flores-Pena, Albie Bowden, Kieran Smith, Woodly Jean and Finn O'Hearn, who managed to stave off the Chargers with some key headers.

Emboldened by their first win of the season, the Conchs headed to St. Brendan on Dec. 15, where they poured on the

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DECEMBER 21, 2023 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

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Rain Banks Scored 9 goals in the last three games

1. Marathon’s Fab Louis Jeune (19) collides with a Downtown Doral defender.

2. The Marathon Dolphins work their way through a stingy Downtown Doral defense.

3. Marathon goaltender Tiago Rivera blocks a shot.

4. Gabriel Olivas (7) advances the ball for the Fins.

5. Marathon’s Alex Perdomo (8) gets a shot on goal.

points for an 8-0 mercy-rule victory. Loubins Fleuridor had a hat trick over the Sabres while Niko Sulak scored 1 and assisted 4 more. In all, six Conchs found the net in the wet, rainy match. Key West scored 4 each half, with Fleuridor starting things off followed by Sebastian Camargo. Sulak tapped 1 in from close range on a Bryden Parsons assist, then Fleuridor scored the fourth first-half goal assisted by DJ Barrett.

In the second half, Parsons found the net, assisted

by Sulak, then Fleuridor completed his hat trick on another Sulak assist. Sulak assisted Wyatt Gibson on goal number 7 for Key West and Barrett struck gold on a 25-yard unassisted shot to end the match. Key West goalie Sebastian Cruz secured the shutout for the Conchs, who hoped to make it a three-win streak against their next opponent, Marathon, on Dec. 19 (results not available at press time). The Conchs had a chance to even up their record with a win against the Fins and another against Westland Hialeah, their final match prior to the holiday break.

The Lady ’Canes suffered two losses last week, both on the road. On Dec. 13, they lost 6-0 to True North Classical Academy and two days later fell to Miami Country Day 7-1. Coral Shores’ boys played just one match last week, losing to Westminster 6-0 on Dec. 12 on the road. A Dec. 15 home game against Florida Christian was rained out.

THE REGAN ROTH TEAM IS HERE TO PROTECT YOU...

YOUR FAMILY, YOUR LIFESTYLE, YOUR HOME!

Family owned and operated since 1958 Tavernier 305.852.3234 | Marathon 305.743.3414 | Email Response@ReganRoth.com

12

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / DECEMBER 21, 2023

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

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LEGAL NOTICES

BOAT SLIP FOR RENT

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of SEA HUNTER ISLAMORADA SPORT FISHING FREELANCE MATE located at 21 N Channel Dr, Monroe County in the City of Key Largo, Florida 330374307, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

Dated at Key Largo, Florida this 12th day of December, 2023.

By: Hunter S. Nathan Publish: December 21, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of COAST TO COAST KEEPSAKES located at 310 120th Street Gulf, Monroe County in the City of Marathon, Florida 330503578, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

Dated at Marathon, Florida this 15th day of December, 2023.

By: Eternal Pawsibilities LLC Publish: December 21, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, January 18, 2024, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Duck Key Security Patrols and Services Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from DemandStar at www.demandstar.com OR www.monroecounty-fl.gov/ bids. The Public Record is available upon request.

Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids electronically. Please do not mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids.

Mailed/physically delivered bids/proposals/responses WILL NOT be accepted.

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, no later than 3:00 P.M., on January 18, 2024. Please submit your confidential financial information in a SEPARATE EMAIL from your bid and required documents.

Your subject line on both emails must read as follows:

Duck Key Security Patrols and Services 01-18-24 Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size.

Should your bid documents exceed 25MB, in advance of the bid opening, please email: omb-purchasing@ monroecounty-fl.gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected.

The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on January 18, 2024.

You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156 One tap mobile: +16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose) Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 (New York) +1 669 900 6833 (San Jose) Publish: December 21, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO. 23-CP-000134-P DIVISION: PROBATE IN RE: ESTATE OF INGEBORG M. LEONARD A/K/A INGE LEONARD DECEASED. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Ingeborg M. Leonard a/k/a Inge Leonard, deceased, whose date of death was September 30, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070.

The name and address 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 14, 2023.

PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE: Steven C. Leonard 909 Narragansett Lane Key Largo, FL 33037 ATTORNEY FOR PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE: Deborah Doliner Deborah Doliner P.A. Florida Bar No. 705985 7685 S.W. 104th Street, Suite 100 Miami, Florida 33156 Telephone: (305) 662-9997 Email address: deborah@ dolinerlaw.com Publish: December 14 & 21, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

C. James, whose address is 5555 College Road, Apt. 202, Key West, FL 33040 on or before January 20, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

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

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

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

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

Dated: November 27, 2023 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Destiny Johnson Deputy Clerk Publish: November 30 and December 7, 14 & 21, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

Boat Dockage for rent in Marathon. Privatebay bottom, up to 40' boat, self containing, offshore water, car & dingy parking space provided. 305-610-8002

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of GEORGIE’S COFFEE located at 59301 Overseas Highway, Monroe County in the City of Marathon, Florida 330506000, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

Dated at Marathon, Florida this 12th day of December, 2023.

By: Georgie’s Coffee Shop, LLC Publish: December 21, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of MAMA LISA’S COOKIE COMPANY located at 52 Merganser Lane, Monroe County in the City of Key West, Florida 330404373, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

Dated at Key West, Florida this 12th day of December, 2023.

By: Lisa Marie Wilson Publish: December 21, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

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

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

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

SUDOKU SOLUTION

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 23-DR-776-K ANTHONY C. JAMES Petitioner, and, BEVERLY JAMES Respondent.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: BEVERLY JAMES RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: UNCONFIRMED ADDRESS OF HER MOTHER’S HOME IN CEIBA, P.R. YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Dissolution of Marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Anthony

AUTOS WANTED AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks.

Runs or Not. $CASH 305-332-0483

AUTOS FOR SALE 1964 Ford Galaxy, 427 Big Block, 5-speed, located in Key Largo.

954-445-6647 2009 Toyota Rav4 166k miles - excellent running condition.

Located in Marathon. $5,500 305-393-3230 SOLD IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK! 2008 Acura TL. Recent rebuilt A/C. Brand new battery. Runs wells $2,995.

Located in Key Largo.

Call 305-451-8410 or 305-852-3471.

SOLD IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK! Place your AUTO FOR SALE ad here for $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy.

Call 305-743-0844 today!

BOAT SLIP FOR RENT

Place your BOAT SLIP FOR RENT ad here for $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305743-0844 today COMMERCIAL

SPACE FOR RENT New warehouses for rent in the Upper Keys.

4 units avail., 600 sq ft each, 20 ft. high ceilings, ½ bath in each unit. $2,500.00/month.

3059 2 4 - 0 5 9 3

EMPLOYMENT BAHAMAS BEACH Family Retreat Needs Retired Caretaker Couple.

Call or text 305-439-9991 Looking for happy personality with good customer service skills to complete staff in fun Keys Gift Shop in Marathon. Part time to start. Call 305 731 6947 for appointment.

City of Marathon Current Job Openings: Administrative Asst. Fire Department and Right of Way Technician. Full Benefits. EOE Please see City website for details www.ci.marathon.fl.us Marathon Auto Air looking for Shop Help - full or part-time. Pay based on experience.

Apply in person at 2525 Overseas Highway, Marathon. 305-289-9884 Boat rental company in Marathon needs an Outboard Mechanic.

Some general marina work, and boat experience a plus. Call 305-481-7006 Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time line cook. Responsible for food and kitchen prep.

Competitive pay at a private club, opportunities to advance.

Flexible morning/ afternoon/evening hours Tuesday–Sunday.

Call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview or email office@ marathonyachtclub.com

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DECEMBER 21, 2023 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • EMPLOYMENT

HOUSING FOR RENT

RV LOT FOR RENT

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time bartender for event nights. $12/hr plus guaranteed gratuity, employee meal provided, private club environment.

Variety of afternoon/evening hours available Tuesday – Sunday. Call 305-7436739 to schedule an interview or email office@ marathonyachtclub.com.

2 Bedroom 1 Bath house in Marathon. Tile & carpet floors, new appliances, gated property.

No pets.

305-610-8002

Large RV Lot for Rent in Marathon.

Full hook up. $1600/ month plus utilities.

F/L/S 305-731-5042

Large One Bedroom Suite, Conch House, carpet, tile, appliances, fully furnished in Marathon.

Available now. $2,000/month includes electric, water, sewer, cable, internet.

No Pets. 305-610-8002

Place your RV LOT FOR RENT ad here. $25.00/ week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 t o d a y !

The Housing Authority Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Housing Assistant-Key West, Occupancy & Admissions AssistantKey West, Protective Service Aide, Housing Manager-Middle Keys, HVAC Maintenance Mechanic, Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker) and Grounds Caretaker. 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.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.

Habitat ReStore in Marathon is seeking a Retail Manager. Send resume to admin@ habitatmiddlekeys. org. Retail experience necessary.

EOE & Drug Free Workplace.

Starting Salary $50,000.

No benefits currently.

HIRED IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!!

Place your Housing For Rent ad here. $25.00/ week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844.

HOUSING WANTED M a t u r e professional female seeks empty or furnished living space in Key West.

Need Washer/Dryer, Private Bath & Kitchen.

2 0 2 - 5 3 1 - 9 8 7 8 RV LOT FOR RENT Large RV Waterfront Lot with Dockage for rent in Marathon.

Full hook up. $1950/ month plus utilities.

F/L/S 305-731-5042

VACATION RENTAL Key West House For Rent - 28 day minimum.

Recently renovated.

2 Units: 3BR/3BA or 2BR/2.5BA. 1 block to Schooner Wharf @ Historic Seaport.

Starting $214/night.

SweetCarolineSeaport. c o m 3BR/2.5BA for rent in Key Largo - on the water with dockage available.

Jan/Feb/ March 954-445-6647 YARD SALES Place your YARD SALE ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy.

Call 305-743-0844 today!

305.743.0844 OPENINGS AVAILABLE TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

HEAVY DIESEL MECHANIC We are hiring a heavy diesel mechanic with experience working on John Deere, Caterpillar, Kubota, etc.

Monday-Friday with some overtime available.

Please apply at Charley Toppino & Sons, Inc. 129 Toppino Industrial Dr, Key West – ask for Cheryl 305-296-5606 extension 126

EXPERIENCED ELECTRICIANS AND HELPERS NEEDED Experience is required.

Must have a valid driver’s license.

We offer 401K, medical insurance, paid holidays and paid vacation.

Positions available in Key West and Marathon. 305-292-3369

PAPA JOE’S WATERFRONT in Islamorada is in final stages of construction and looking forward to an end-of-January opening!!

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL - Cook, Dietary, $5k Sign-on Bonus* - Emergency Department Team Coordinator - Environmental Tech, $5k Sign-on Bonus* - Manager Food Service - Medical Technologist, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Radiology, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - Patient Care Manager, Emergency Department, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - Patient Experience Advocate - Pharmacy Tech, $4k Sign-on Bonus* - Phlebotomist, Laboratory - Pool Physical Therapist - Registered Nurse, Oncology-Outpatient, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Registered Nurse, Post Anesthesia Care Unit, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Security Officer All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. *Sign-on bonuses are available only for select full-time positions based on candidate experience.

APPLY AND LEARN MORE careers.baptisthealth.net or call 786-243-8507

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

D’Asign Source is seeking the following professionals.

Overtime and benefits are available.

For full details & additional openings, please visit DAsignSource.com/careers

Place your Help Wanted ad here for $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy.

Call 305-743-0844 today!

- Customer Service Coordinator - Medical Technologist, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Medical Technologist, Laboratory - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Radiology, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Ultrasound, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - MH Multiplace Hyperbaric Tech - Pool Group Exercise Instructor - Pool Physical Therapist - Registered Nurse, $25k Sign-on Bonus*

IS HIRING! Volunteer Resources Administrative Assistant (Full-Time, Permanent)

Facilities Maintenance Apprentice (Full-Time, Permanent)

HOBBIES/COLLECT. P R I V A T E C O L L E C T O R WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches.

Call 305-743-4578 HOUSING FOR RENT LONG TERM Key Largo 2BR/2BA Spacious Doublewide, 1400 sq ft modular on canal w/40’ dock, direct ocean access.

Very nice community. $ 3 7 5 0 / m o n t h 7 8 6 - 2 5 8 - 3 1 2 7

Now accepting applications via email for the following positions: Admin/Office-Manager Assistant General Manager Restaurant/Floor Manager(s) Beverage/Bar Manager Sous Chef(s) Kitchen Manager/Supervisor(s) We are now beginning to assemble our management team.

If you’re interested in any of these listed employment opportunities, please email your resume to FrankS@PapaJoesWaterfront.com Please be sure to attach your resume, contact info, & position(s) of interest.

Please No calls, No walk-ins at this time.

Thank you.

Network Administrator

Ensure the stable operation of the computer networks. This includes planning, developing, installing, configuring, maintaining, supporting, and optimizing all network hardware, software, and communication links.

Pool & Landscape Technician Experienced in landscaping, hardscape install, irrigation and lighting systems. Competitive compensation plus benefits.

Construction Foreman

Coordination and participation in the day-to-day on site construction process, to the highest quality standards.

Education Program Host (Full-Time, Permanent)

Staff Photographer

(Full-Time, Part-Time, Seasonal)

Media & Marketing Assistant (Full-Time, Permanent)

Benefits include medical, life & disability insurance, 401(k) plan, paid vacation, sick time & holidays.

Full job descriptions available at www.dolphins.org/career_opportunities Email cover letter, DRC application & resume to drc-hr@dolphins.org EOE

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER 58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL Teaching... Learning... Caring

14

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / DECEMBER 21, 2023

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

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS HIRING!

GCC offers excellent benefits for full-time employment, but we realize some would prefer part-time to enjoy the Florida Keys lifestyle more.

All positions can be considered for full or part-time unless notated.

Apply at westcare.com and enter your availability.

KEY LARGO

Advocate (PT) Behavioral Health Counselor (Child)

KEY WEST

Peer Support Specialist Prevention Specialist Advocate Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult) Behavioral Health Counselor (Child) Case Manager (Adult)

MARATHON

Admission Specialist Care Coordinator (PT) Driver (CDL) Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult) RNs/LPNs - 3 shifts (also Per Diem) Peer Support Specialist *Support Worker – Assisted Living (PT) *Behavioral Health Technicians 3 shifts (also Per Diem) *No experience required for this position. Will train.

A caring heart & helpful hands required.

Background and drug screen req.

COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!!

Check out all available positions at: www.westcare.com (search by zip code) EEOC/DFWP

DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATORS

Benefits package including vacation, sick days, holidays and 401K PSP retirement plan. Please send cover letter and resume to sales@dynastymarine.net for consideration. No phone calls please. dynastymarine.net

DUI EVALUATOR/ INSTRUCTOR The Advocate DUI Program is hiring for part time positions.

DUI instructors and evaluators - 2 days a week, Bachelors or Masters degree in substance abuse field required. Bilingual preferred, not required. Office located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $108,332/annually $111,365/annually 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.

EEO, VPE, ADA, DFW

Duties to include invoice and inventory entry, creating and filing paperwork for international shipments, scheduling inspections needed for international shipments, customer communication and tracking, creating and maintaining customer accounts and some customer service.

Must be proficient in Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel.

This position requires high attention to detail and the ability to multitask.

Competitive compensation plus benefits.

Apply in person at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar, 7 Knight’s Key Blvd, Marathon

TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION T&D ELECTRICAL ENGINEER

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority is looking for Distribution System Operators to perform semi-skilled work, involving the repair and maintenance of FKAA water distribution and transmission systems. We provide on the job training for qualified applicants. Requires a High School, Diploma or GED and valid Florida Driver’s License. Salary: $48,909.19. Excellent benefits and opportunities for advancement.

Apply online at www.fkaa.com/212/opportunities

DYNASTY MARINE ASSOCIATES, MARATHON, FL

• Bussers • Hosts • Line Cooks • Waitstaff • Bartenders • Dishwashers • Bar Backs

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

LOCATION: MARATHON

$$$ OFFICE ASSISTANT $$$

SUNSET GRILLE IS HIRING

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

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

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

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

SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $40.35/hr. - $45.19/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.

15

DECEMBER 21, 2023 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

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

THEME: HAPPY HOLIDAYS ACROSS 1. Bag holder 6. P in mpg 9. Eye part 13. Dog 14. ____ Gershwin 15. *Eggnog ingredient 16. Hold the floor 17. ____ Mahal 18. Anti-elderly one 19. *Breaking news, to a caroler 21. *Coming, in Latin 23. ____’easter 24. “Begone!”

25. Parent-child divide 28. Fur-dwelling parasites 30. Lacrosse stick 35. Kiln for hops 37. Feline vibration 39. Little Richard’s “____ Frutti” 40. Cream-filled treat 41. *Number of candles in kinara 43. Mountain goat terrain 44. *”Prancing and pawing of each little hoof,” e.g.

46. Carpenter’s joint 47. Drug-induced state 48. Make lovable 50. “Cheers” regular 52. *Max to #57 Across 53. Overwhelming defeat 55. Thailand native 57. *Dr. Seuss’ spoilsport 60. *Santa chute 64. Water border 65. “What?”

67. D in LED 68. Carved 69. Stars and Stripes land 70. Astronomer ____ Hubble 71. Hitler’s sidekick 72. Joaquin Phoenix’ 2013 movie 73. Crows’ homes

DOWN 1. Dick’s and Jane’s dog 2. Famous Amos 3. Cormac McCarthy’s “The ____” 4. Join the cast of (2 words) 5. Carbolic acid 6. Deodorant target 7. Pitcher’s stat 8. Indian prince 9. More than suggest 10. Blood tunnel 11. 90 degrees, on compass 12. Invoice qty.

15. Romp around 20. Key ___ on a movie set, pl.

22. Med school grad 24. Passepartout to Phileas Fogg 25. *Popular traditional holiday entree 26. Home run hero 27. Impostor 29. Prompted 31. “That hurts!”

32. Vegas’ main drag 33. Coach-and-four 34. *Number of days in Hanukkah 36. Muscle quality 38. Word processor command 42. *Like Santa’s pole 45. Repaired, as in socks 49. Mythical giant bird 51. Unmarried woman, archaic 54. Affirmative interjection 56. What timidest and polyimide have in common 57. Clarified butter 58. Theater seat arrangement 59. Wraths 60. Burn to a crisp 61. “____ your chance..,” contraction 62. Make changes 63. Yearnings 64. “Be quiet!”

66. Don’t waste

FKAA EMERGENCY WATER PLAN STORE WATER

FILL BATHTUB AND LARGE CONTAINERS WITH WATER FOR WASHING AND FLUSHING ONLY. FOR DRINKING AND COOKING WATER, STORE IN CONTAINERS FOR 7-10 DAYS. 1 GALLON PER PERSON PER DAY IS RECOMMENDED.

FOLLOW PRECAUTIONARY/ MANDATORY BOIL WATER NOTICES IF A NOTICE IS ISSUED, DISINFECT YOUR WATER BY EITHER BOILING FOR 1 MINUTE, OR ADDING 1/8 TEASPOON OF BLEACH, OR USING PURIFICATION TABLETS.

EVACUATING? HERE'S WHAT TO DO SHUT OFF THE HOME'S WATER VALVE (TYPICALLY FOUND ON THE EXTERIOR WALL OF THE HOME). SOME WATER HEATERS MAY ALSO NEED TO BE SHUT OFF. CHECK WITH THE MANUFACTURER. Should you require assistance in turning off your water, FKAA will be happy to come out and turn it off for you, as a courtesy (time permitting).

CUSTOMERS WITH LOW PRESSURE SEWER PUMP ON THEIR PROPERTY ARE ASKED TO SHUT OFF THE BREAKER TO THEIR GRINDER PUMP (LOCATED IN THE DEDICATED ELECTRIC BOX OUTSIDE OF THEIR HOME).

STAY INFORMED REGISTER FOR "PRIORITY CALL" @FKAA.COM TO RECEIVE NOTICES VIA PHONE, TEXT, & EMAIL. FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK, FKAA.COM AND THE RADIO CALL US @ 305.296.2454