Upper Keys Weekly 24-0111

“The quality, not the longevity, of one’s life is what’s important.” — Martin Luther King Jr.

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January 11, 2024

WARRIORS CYCLE Wounded vets take on the Keys | P. 12 ART UNDER THE OAKS Festival enters its 40th year | P. 10 LEGACY OF GIVING Upper Keys woman aids a nonprofit’s future | P. 23

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

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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KEYS

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91760 Overseas Hwy. Tavernier, FL 33070 Office: 305.363.2957 www.keysweekly.com Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com Editor / Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Digital Editor / Gwen Filosa gwen@keysweekly.com Director of Sales Manuela Carrillo Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com Business Development Jill Miranda Baker jill@keysweekly.com Staff Writers Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com Production Manager Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com Design / Pre-Press Diana Striker www.keysweekly.com Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844 Se habla español THE UPPER KEYS WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR

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

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

Postmaster SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO THE KEYS WEEKLY, 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050 News Deadline Monday Noon Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m. @KeysWeekly @theWeekly Members of

There won’t be a lot of warmth at Arrowhead Stadium for the AFC Wild Card game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Miami Dolphins on Saturday, Jan. 13. The gametime temperature is expected to be 0 degrees. Wind chills could make it feel colder.

A Wounded Warrior Ride cyclist departs from Coral Shores High School en route to Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina on Jan. 5.

JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

VILLAGE COUNCIL BEGINS A NEW YEAR Referendums approved for pay bump & term limits JIM McCARTHY

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jim@keysweekly.com

slamorada council members welcomed a new interim village manager, considered several ordinances and delved into various discussions during the first meeting of 2024.

Inside the Founders Park Community Center on Jan. 9, council members unanimously approved an ordinance to amend a vessel exclusion zone and swim area located off Port Antigua and White Marlin Beach on Lower Matecumbe Key. Party boats anchoring near the shoreline in past years brought many issues to property owners — everything from trash to drunken behavior by boaters. In February 2020, the council directed staff to engage with Port Antigua and White Marlin Beach residents. Out of those discussions came the creation of a swim area to keep boats away from the shallow depths.

Peter Frezza, environmental resources manager, said there’s a 350-foot zone off White Marlin Beach that wasn’t included in the swim area, to give property owners access to use their boats from their docks. The new proposal shrinks that zone not included to a 25-foot wide channel, which gives private property owners the ability to access their docks.

“The residents there are fully on board with this. I haven’t had anything but positive response from this. Law enforcement is on board,” Frezza said.

Another ordinance unanimously approved by the council calls for a referendum on term limits at the November 2024 election. Last month, the council verbally agreed to send a question to the village ballot asking voters whether they support 8-year cumulative term limits. The proposal was originally retroactive, but the

A new swim zone off Port Antigua and White Marlin Beach shows a 25-foot-wide channel to allow private residents to access their docks. CONTRIBUTED

council changed direction and elected to make it prospective.

Council members voted 4-1 on a referendum for a council pay increase to $1,500 a month at the November election. Language was added that council compensation would be subject to annual cost of living adjustment commensurate with any adjustment given to village staff that fiscal year. Council member Henry Rosenthal, the lone “no” vote, disagreed with the cost of living adjustment increase and requested it be eliminated from the referendum. His motion didn’t receive support, however.

During the discussion portion of the meeting, Rosenthal asked Finance Director Maria Bassett, who was acting village manager, for an update on the FiIls, a series of islands that connect Upper and Lower Matecumbe Keys. Bassett said the council suggested the village reach out to the Florida Department of Transportation and request the placing of boulders to replace the orange cones along the Fills.

A.J. Engelmeyer reached out to FDOT and the initial response was “no.” Dis-

cussions are continuing, however.

Mayor Buddy Pinder welcomed Kimberly Matthews, county senior director of strategic planning and libraries, to the interim village manager seat. She officially began her 60-day stint on Jan. 8.

A resolution to approve an agreement with Attention Media was pulled off the agenda. According to Matthews, the agreement with Carlo Garcia for social media outreach services will go on a month-to-month basis. Garcia will report to the interim village manager until there’s a permanent village manager in place.

Vice Mayor Sharon Mahoney brought forth the idea of purchasing Island Community Church to build a state-of-the-art library. She said the structure on the property could be demolished to allow for a new library.

“I know Roman (Gastesi, the Monroe County administrator) is always open to the conversation. If the village is interested in having that conversation with the county, I’m sure Roman would welcome the conversation,” Matthews said.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

NEW ELECTION LAW FOLLOWS THE MONEY City-level candidates & incumbents now subject to full financial disclosure MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

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o you know how much your city commissioner still owes on his or her home? Or how many rental properties they own and how much income those yield? Do you know which stocks your mayor owns, or how much money is in their checking account and 401(k)?

Floridians soon will have access to these and other details about the mayors and elected city officials in their cities, towns and villages.

Enacted Jan. 1, a new Florida elections law that touts increased transparency expands the state’s full financial disclosure requirements to include elected mayors and city commissioners, who were previously subject to less detailed financial reporting.

Now, mayors and city commissioners, as well as candidates for those offices, must file what’s known as Form 6 with the Florida Commission on Ethics by July 1.

Florida’s county- and state-level elected officials and candidates have been subject to the Form 6 requirement for decades, but many city-level politicians have dubbed the new requirement “invasive” and “onerous” for local offices, many of which pay less than $10,000 per year.

The new law has prompted scores of mayors and city council members across the state to resign or decline to seek reelection, including 15 officials in Pinellas County and more than a dozen in the Tampa Bay area, according to reports from NewsChannel 8 in Tampa.

As of Jan. 9, no elected official in the Florida Keys had resigned over the new Form 6 requirement, but Key West City Commissioner Sam Kaufman, who will be term-limited out this year, told the Keys Weekly, “the resignations are understandable.”

Kaufman will have to file Form 6F — a “final” version of the form for officials leaving office — by July 1 despite not seeking reelection; he recently watched a webinar about the new requirement.

“Form 6 is tough,” he said. “I have a feeling a lot of officials don’t

yet know what they’re in for.

Some may not comply fully with its requirements, hoping no one looks too closely — until someone with an ax to grind complains to the Commission on Ethics. Personally, I don’t have any fear or worries about disclosing, but I can see how some people don’t want others to know what businesses they’ve invested in, or how heavily.”

Jimmy Weekley, a longtime Key West city commissioner, former mayor and business owner, agreed, telling the Keys Weekly on Jan. 9, “As a business person, do I want my employees to know my net worth and all those details?”

Florida State Rep. Spencer Roach, who championed the new law, told NewsChannel 8 that the annual salary of the elected office was not the issue, but rather the millions of dollars in taxpayer money that these local officials control.

“Officials who are making procurement decisions, that are letting out millions, in some cases billions, of dollars of contracts using taxpayer money. This way the public knows whether they have a financial interest in the companies they’re using taxpayer dollars to do business with.”

Monroe County Supervisor of Elections Joyce Griffin has sent emails to incumbent elected officials in Key West, Marathon, Layton, Key Colony Beach and the Village of Islamorada, alerting them to the new requirements and the July 1 deadline.

“If they were in office on Dec. 31, 2023, they have to file Form 6,” Griffin said. “Even if they quit now, they have to file the Form 6F - the final version.”

According to the Florida Commission on Ethics, candidates must file Form 6 at the time of qualifying, which in Monroe County occurs in June. Incumbent officials must file annually by July 1. Those who don’t file Form 6 by Sept. 3 will be fined $25 for each day it’s late, up to $1,500.

Failure to file could also result in removal from public office, disqualification from being on the ballot, or a civil penalty up to $10,000.

WILL YOUR BALLOT COME IN THE MAIL? ARE YOU SURE?

Vote-by-mail requests expire after elections; reregistration is required MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

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lorida voters who grew accustomed, in the pandemic years, to receiving their election ballots in the mail won’t get what they’re expecting this year if they haven’t reregistered for the vote-by-mail option.

“A request to receive a vote-by-mail ballot covers all elections from the date a request was submitted through the end of the calendar year for the next ensuing, regularly scheduled, general election,” states the Florida Division of Elections website. “A request must then be renewed thereafter if the voter wishes to continue to receive a vote-bymail ballot after the expiration of each time period thereafter.

“If a vote-by-mail ballot is returned undeliverable during any election, it will cancel a request on record. If the voter requests a ballot thereafter, the voter must provide or confirm his or her current residential address before being able to get a ballot,” the website states.

Don’t worry, it’s easy to reregister for the vote-by-mail option, but Monroe County Supervisor of Elections Joyce Griffin remains concerned that voters aren’t aware that their requests expire.

Griffin has been keeping track of the number of vote-bymail requests in recent years and emailing regular updates and reminders to voters, tinged with a bit of humor.

On Dec. 21, 2023, Griffin wrote in an email: “Good Afternoon: Only Republicans will be voting on the March 19, 2024 Presidential Preference Primary (PPP). At this time we have 3,773 Republican vote-by-mail requests for the March 2024 election. As of now, we have 23,365 Republicans in Monroe County.

“As of today, Dec. 21, 2023, the number of vote-by-mail requests we have for the August 2024 election from all parties is 8,772 — 3,682 requests from Democrats and 3,966 requests from Republicans.

“On Feb. 12, 2020 we had 11,831 requests for vote-bymail ballots. What does this mean? In my mind, this means 3,059 voters will be very upset with me when they don’t receive their vote- by-mail ballot.

“Please help us get the message out that the law changed, and every voter who wants a vote by mail ballot must request one each election cycle. Request now for all of 2024, or check your voteby-mail status at the following links: “Request a vote-by-mail ballot: keyselections.org/Voters/Vote-by-Mail-Request “Check your vote-by-mail status to determine whether a ballot is coming in the mail: keyselections.org/Voters/MyVote-by-Mail-Status.

“For all other local election and candidate information, visit keyselections.org.”

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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

FISHING SEMINAR RETURNS TO THE KEYS 81681 OLD HIGHWAY, MORADA WAY, ISLAMORADA 305-735-4945 WWW.SANDBARBOOKSTORE.COM F SANDBAR BOOKS dv @SANDBARBOOKS

Key Largo Chamber thanks FKEC for their years of support with the holiday tree! We couldn't do this with your continued support!

Learn from the best saltwater anglers

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fter a three-year in-person absence due to COVID 19, the Salt Water Sportsman National Seminar Series is to return to the Florida Keys live Saturday, Jan. 27, at Coral Shores Performing Arts Center, MM 89.9, oceanside in Islamorada.

The 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. educational event will cover the “how-to” and “where-to” aspects of catching the Florida Keys’ inshore, nearshore and offshore saltwater gamefish. Presiding over the event are George Poveromo, host of “George Poveromo’s World of Saltwater Fishing” on Discovery Network, and Capt. Mark Schmidt, a Key West light tackle guide and International Game Fish Association worldrecord holder.

“Entering our 37th year, the seminar series has become the nation’s longest-running and most popular educational course on recreational angling tactics and techniques,” Poveromo said. “Its success has always been about the vast amount of cutting-edge and pertinent how-to information shared on catching more and bigger gamefish within the waters at each respective Seminar Series stop.

“This information is explained in great detail by some of the best

Additionally, we thank the following for going the extra mile with their support this year!

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saltwater anglers, and each session is backed by elaborate visuals that include video, technical- and actionoriented images and onstage demonstrations,” he added.

Set to join Poveromo and Schmidt are a diversified group of South Florida and Keys professionals including Liane Lopez, Clay Cowart, Jimmy Gagliardini, Dr. John Stieglitz, Scott Wenzel, Ryan Wenzel, Alan Wenzel, Diego Toiran, Jim Willcox, Abie Raymond and Chris Hanson.

The $65 ticket price covers five hours of instruction, a 2024 course textbook, a one-year subscription or extension to Salt Water Sportsman magazine, one Roff’s Ocean Fishing Forecast Analysis, boat care products, a Bass Pro Shops discount card and chances to win thousands of dollars in door prizes.

The grand prize at the conclusion of the seminar is a guided Florida Keys fishing trip with accommodations. The super grand prize, to be awarded two weeks after the conclusion of the 2024 series, is a new Mako Pro Skiff 17.

An after-seminar party is set for attendees beginning at 5 p.m. Saturday at World Wide Sportsman in Islamorada.

To purchase tickets and learn more about the seminar, visit nationalseminarseries.com.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECAPS BUSY 2023 2024 challenges include transportation & development

Monroe County Administrator Roman Gastesi. MONROE COUNTY/Contributed

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he year 2023 was one of celebration as Monroe County marked its 200th anniversary, and today, our commissioners and staff continue to enhance the quality of life of our citizens, business owners and visitors. I am proud of our commissioners and employees’ remarkable accomplishments in 2023.

Department highlights from this past year include: • Legislatively, Monroe County received $20 million in Florida Keys Stewardship Act funding, which supports the health of our nearshore waters, $6.25 million to complete our new Emergency Operations Center at Marathon airport, $1.6 million for mooring field development, and state and federal funds for other essential projects like resilience against sea-level rise, storm risk mitigation, and bridge replacements.

• Sustainability applied for and received notice of grant awards from the Resilient Florida state resilience program for partial funding of four road adaptation projects with an estimated cost of $186 million.

• Engineering received approval from FEMA for the engineering, design and permitting phase of up to $178 million in hazard mitigation grant program funds for county roads and sealevel rise adaptation projects.

• We received $10 million from the state for the creation of a new artificial reef program, kicking off in 2024.

• Monroe County Transit completed its year-long existing conditions study to determine exactly how transit services are being delivered throughout the county, taking us one step closer to making transportation in the Florida Keys safer and more efficient.

• Code Compliance reached an almost complete connection rate to the central sewer system — another giant leap toward improved water quality in the Florida Keys. The department worked with the remaining 1,400 property owners who had yet to complete their connection.

• Budget and Finance produced the $667 million, fiscal year 2022-3 budget, which boasts Florida’s lowest property tax rate for another year.

• Parks and Beaches’ new Recreation Division developed the Keys Kids Swim and summer camp program and added two new community centers to help our community positively and meet recreation needs for all ages.

• Key West International Airport continues to construct its new terminal, which services more than 1 million passengers annually.

• Solid Waste held illegal dumping offenders accountable for their actions in several areas, making our streets cleaner and safer.

• Project Management completed the supervisor of elections buildout and is almost finished with the public defender’s office in Key West.

• Information Technology continued supporting multiple departments by introducing new and modern software products while ensuring security, performance, and cost-effectiveness.

• Veterans Affairs assisted local veterans in receiving more than $6.9 million in new annual disability payments, an increase of $1.4 million over last year.

• The library system’s electronic collection of e-books, e-audiobooks, and digital magazines saw unprecedented usage, amassing over 105,000 circulations for the year, a 36 percent increase from the previous year, and continues to add cutting-edge technology at the five branches.

• Employee Services resumed the employee health and wellness fairs with record-breaking attendance for county and constitutional officer employees.

• Building and Permitting improved the online permitting and plan review process with user feedback.

• Fire Rescue strengthened its emergency medical services program to complement the BOCC’s approval of three new medical helicopters. Trauma Star continues to provide a record number of lifesaving flights to the mainland while transporting our residents with no out-of-pocket costs. The sixth “Hot Shots” firefighter training class graduated — a program that waives tuition for residents.

• Guardian Ad Litem represented 100% of children involved in dependency proceedings through its professional child welfare team.

• For those with a green thumb, the Extension Service taught residents about local flora, fauna and other vital Florida Keys resources. Also, it began offering first aid and CPR certifications to the community.

• Strategic Planning is beginning to gather new information on community priorities to incorporate into a refreshed strategic plan.

• The Fleet Department received ASE blue seal awards for each garage for its high standards in maintaining county vehicles.

• Facilities Maintenance and Public Works worked to help others in the community following unnamed storms that affected many islands throughout the Keys.

• The County Attorney’s Office celebrated the recommendations that Monroe County’s 16th Judicial Circuit not be combined with Miami-Dade’s circuit.

2024 will be a year for communitywide courageous communication as we navigate through many critical challenges that will shape the future of the Florida Keys, from our Rate of Growth Ordinance and hurricane evacuation modeling to transportation issues and more.

For the past 15.5 years as Monroe County administrator, the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners has been committed to creating a better life, every day, for everyone in the Florida Keys. We will continue to have open discussions and workshops about our future, and we will strive to make our island home a safe and enjoyable place to live, work and play.

Roman Gastesi Monroe County administrator

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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FESTIVAL OF FINE ARTS & CRAFTS RETURNS Event at San Pedro Church enters 40th year JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

1. Art Under the Oaks festival goers visit vendor tents underneath the towering trees of San Pedro Catholic Church. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO. 2. Eddie Osborne, of Pan African Arts, demonstrating how to play one of his instruments — a xylophone — at last year’s Art Under the Oaks.

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n arts and crafts festival beneath the towering shady oak trees at San Pedro Catholic Church returns for its 40th year on Saturday, Jan. 13.

Serving as the official kickoff to the Upper Keys events season, the annual Art Under the Oaks festival welcomes vendors who create and sell original artwork. Paintings and photographs are on display to view and purchase, as well as handmade jewelry, candles and seasonings, to name a few. Patrons attending the festival meander San Pedro’s lush natural grounds as they meet friendly creators and purchase their oeuvres.

Now in his third year as event chair, Keith Douglass’ Art Under the Oaks involvement dates back to his membership with the church, which followed his arrival to the Florida Keys via a 52-day sailboat voyage from upstate New York in December 1990. He’s usually seen among the volunteers in vests assisting vehicles parking behind San Pedro. Three years ago, Douglass was tapped to serve as Art Under the Oaks chair following the

passing of the previous chair, Lynn Clements, due to cancer. Clements served on the steering committee for many years before taking the reins leading up to the 2020 festival. “(Her) last wish was that the event would continue after she was gone, so the priest came to me and asked if I would do it. I said ‘I wouldn’t say no to God,’” Douglass said. “I’ve been so fortunate and blessed to have a great steering committee. My wife, Diane, serves as co-chair.”

With every Art Under the Oaks come improvements and expansions to give patrons a better experience than the year before. Last year, Douglass said, the event expanded beverages on site. This year, beer will be added to the list of drinks, which also include soda, water and libations prepared by local chefs. And live music will add to the event’s ambiance. Patrons can also buy home-baked goods and try their luck in raffles with prizes donated by vendors.

“They come up with some really nice items,” Douglass said.

An event can’t go on without help

from the many volunteers, which includes Coral Shores students, and from donations. Douglass credited the Upper Keys Rotary Club for pitching its tent for patrons to sit, eat and enjoy the music. He also expressed appreciation to Riva Motorsports for donating golf carts to help transport people to the event.

Proceeds from the annual Art Under the Oaks festival support the church’s ministries which benefit the local community. They include the Boy Scout and Cub Scout Pack 914, the Men’s Club and Women’s Guild which provide scholarships to local high school students, religious education for students, and supporting the local food pantry. They also provide financial and other assistance to those in need, including the homeless.

Admission is free to Art Under the Oaks, which begins at 9 a.m. and concludes at 4 p.m. Patrons can park at the church parking lot for a $5 donation. Free parking is available at Plantation Key School. Visit artundertheoaks.com for more information.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

REALTOR® SPOTLIGHT

Kelly Randin RE/MAX ALL KEYS REAL ESTATE

Kelly Randin is a lifelong resident of the Florida Keys and top producing agent at RE/MAX All Keys Real Estate. Leveraging her extensive local knowledge and connections, Kelly is committed to delivering an unparalleled home buying and selling experience for her clients. With a wealth of experience in sales and marketing, Kelly demonstrates a genuine dedication to understanding and meeting the unique needs of her clients. She takes pride in her collaborative approach, often partnering with local expert specialists when needed to ensure the job gets done efficiently, making both her buyers’ and sellers’ lives easier. This strategic relationship allows her to receive fast and reliable service in return.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Kelly is widely recognized for her unwavering commitment to giving back to the community. Her profound love for animals translates into a passion for rescue efforts, and she actively invests her time in bringing joy to children. Each year, she takes the lead in distributing Thanksgiving turkey dinners to families in need during the holidays. Kelly contributes to the Parent Teacher Association (PTA), raising funds to support teachers and programs that benefit children. In addition, Kelly manages a Facebook page for “Lost and Found Pets Florida Keys,” voluntarily working to reunite lost pets and reduce the number of animals in shelters.

In 2023, Kelly assumed the role of co-chair for the Conch Scramble, a fundraising event that brings substantial funds to school programs facing financial deficits. The beneficiaries of the 2023 Conch Scramble include: Key Largo School, Plantation School, and a grant recipient from Coral Shores High School, together they shared a total of $60,000. Kelly personally sponsors local programs such as the CSHS Football team, Key Largo School Carnivals and hygiene bags for young ladies at all of the Upper Keys Schools.

Her contributions extend beyond monetary donations as she actively invests her time in enriching the lives of her fellow Florida Keys community members, Furry or not! Always going above and beyond to make a difference.

Claire Johnson, 2024 President Karen Williams deCastro, Sec./Treas.

Kathe Kaile, Director Erin Kiel, Director Christine Garcia Castellanos, Director Corie McGraw-Abel, Director

Amy Bruggeman, Director Lindsey Davis, Director Michael Rojewski, Director David Lazcos, Director Michaela Walters, Director Lynda Anthony, CEO

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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A RIDE TO REMEMBER

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Wounded veterans pedal through the Keys

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WELCOMING

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oughly 40 veterans hopped on their bikes on the morning of Jan. 5 at VFW Post 10211 in Key Largo, pedaling down the Keys to the Southernmost City for the annual Wounded Warrior Project’s Florida Keys Soldier Ride. Some men and women who valiantly served their country and were injured in combat pedaled on adaptive bicycles. Participants made several stops along the two-day journey, including Coral Shores High School, Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina and Marathon

Fire Station, where they were met with cheers by members of the public waving flags and wearing red, white and blue. On Jan. 6, warriors were joined by community members for an island ride with stops at historic Key West military sites. On Jan. 7, the group visited Marathon’s Dolphin Research Center. The Soldier Ride is organized annually by the Wounded Warrior Project to raise public awareness and support for the needs of severely injured members of the military.

1. About 40 Wounded Warrior riders take to the Seven Mile Bridge on Jan. 6. 2. Cyclists celebrate their arrival to the Southernmost City following a two-day biking excursion through the Florida Keys. 3. Young students show off posters they made for wounded veterans partaking in the ride during a stop at Coral Shores. 4. Wounded Warrior cyclists arrive at Coral Shores High School on Jan. 5. 5. Military Jeeps proceed through Key West as the Wounded Warrior Ride concludes. Photos by Larry Blackburn, Jim McCarthy and Andy Newman. Full gallery at keysweekly.com.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

th 39 40th Annual Annual

ART UNDER THE OAKS Saturday, January 13, 2024 San Pedro Church Gardens • MM 89.5 • US1 • Plantation Key

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14

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

BAYGRASS ORANGE BOWL CLASSIC WELCOMES BLUEGRASS FEST COLLEGE SWIMMERS RETURNS Arkansas & Colby College leave victorious

An Arkansas swimmer reaches for the wall. STEPHEN FRINK/Contributed

U

niversity of Arkansas women’s and Colby College men’s swimming teams took top honors at the 2024 Orange Bowl Swim Classic on Jan. 3 at the Jacobs Aquatic Center in Key Largo.

The Lady Razorbacks amassed 757 points while Colby College’s male swimmers chalked up 1,061 points at the annual highlight of the winter collegiate swimming training season in the Florida Keys.

In second place in the women’s division was Colby College, based in Waterville, Maine, while Trinity College, headquartered in Hartford, Connecticut, was third. Finishing second in the men’s division was Trinity, while the College of the Florida Keys placed third.

The Orange Bowl Swim Classic is an official Orange Bowl event staged during the month-long Orange Bowl festival, highlighted by the nationally televised Capital One Orange Bowl football game.

— Contributed

Monroe County Parks and Beaches Director John Allen, right, joins Obie, the Orange Bowl mascot, and advisory board member Jim Boilini at the event.

CONTRIBUTED

A Colby College swimmer reaches for the wall. STEPHEN FRINK/Contributed

Music takes to beer garden

T

hree days of tunes, beer and food highlight the 11th annual Baygrass Bluegrass Festival in Islamorada.

Organized by Island Community Entertainment (ICE), and hosted by Florida Keys Brewing Co., the music kicks off Friday, Jan. 12 with Snowbird Street Band at 1:30 p.m. Nighttime tunes will be played by Hare of the Dawg beginning at 6 p.m. Micah & the Barstool Sailors will take to the beer garden stage Saturday, Jan. 13 at 1 p.m., followed by The Wondering Hours at 6 p.m.

Sunday’s music includes Lowground Band at 1 p.m. followed by Grass is Dead at 6 p.m. This threeday music extravaganza is free and open to the public.

For more information, visit Baygrass Bluegrass Festival on Facebook.

— Keys Weekly staff report

1. Guitar player Drew Matulich performs with the festival’s headliner, The Grass is Dead, a bluegrass Grateful Dead tribute band at last year’s Baygrass Bluegrass Festival in Islamorada. JACQUELINE HALE/Keys Weekly. 2.

Guitar player Nicholas Kiriazis of the Low Ground Band performs during last year’s festival.

1

2

15

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

PUBLIX BACKS SPECIAL OLYMPICS Torch Run donations accepted at all stores Jan. 12-21 Islamorada Village of Islands Meeting Schedule January 2024

Unless otherwise noted, meetings are held at the Founders Park Community Center, 87000 Overseas Hwy., Islamorada

Monday, Jan. 8, 5:30 p.m.

Local Planning Agency Tuesday, Jan. 9 & Thursday, Jan. 11 Regular Village Council Meetings Monday, Jan. 22, 5 p.m.

Workforce/Affordable Housing Citizens Advisory Committee

Islamorada Administrative Center and Public Safety Headquarters, 86800 Overseas Highway, Third Floor Conference Room Two or more members from the Village Council and members from various Village Committees may be present at meetings. These meetings are open to the public. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, all persons who are disabled and who need special accommodations to participate in this meeting because of that disability should contact the ADA Coordinator at ADA@Islamorada.fl.us or by phone at 305-664-6448 at least 48 hours before the scheduled meeting.

To participate via Zoom, please scan code to the Village Calendar and refer to the Public Notice for specific meeting log-in information.

Key West Police Chief Sean Brandenburg promotes the Special Olympics Torch Run with local athletes at the Publix in Key Plaza. CONTRIBUTED

P

ublix, Procter & Gamble and Special Olympics have partnered for 44 years to help people with intellectual disabilities achieve their dreams.

This signature event unites Publix associates, customers and local communities in an effort to support thousands of Special Olympics athletes and their families.

From Jan. 12-21, Publix customers can help support their state athletes with a donation which can be made at the register during checkout for as little as $1 or a specific desired amount.

“At Publix, our mission is to be involved as responsible citizens within our communities,” said Dwaine Stevens, Publix director of community relations. “Our support of Special Olympics began 44 years ago, recognizing their impact as a means to build strong communities then, and this legacy continues today as we are proud to be an employer of choice among more than 800 Special Olympics athletes across our seven-state operating area. We offer our athletes more than just a job; we offer a fulfilling career and an extension of family. We are proud to join our communities in doing good together.”

All donations made at Publix Stores in Monroe County will directly benefit local athletes residing in Monroe.

Monroe County Tax Collector Sam Steele and Jennifer Averette of Special Olympics at the Searstown Publix in Key West.

About Special Olympics Florida Special Olympics Florida provides year-round sports training, competition and health services to children and adults with intellectual disabilities, at no cost to the athletes or their caregivers, as a means to achieve physical fitness, self-esteem, socialization skills and the life skills necessary to be productive, respected and contributing members of their communities. More information is at www. specialolympicsflorida.org.

— Contributed

17

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

FOXY VISITS

BUDDY

Ridley the fox and Nicole Navarro, Pawsitive Beginnings founder, with the Key Largo Rotary Club. CONTRIBUTED

Ridley the fox makes rounds

H

i friends!

Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” 2024 has been off to a rocking start here at REEF Pawsitive BeginTHE FOX nings. Last week, mom — Pawsitive Reef is a red fox Beginnings foundthat was saved er Nicole Navarro from a fur farm.

— and Ridley had He now lives in some fun outings Key Largo with his human, Nicole around town.

Navarro.

The Key Largo Rotary invited them to be their guest speaker at their monthly meeting at Playa Largo.

Mom was able to discuss what we do here at Pawsitive Beginnings while playing a short video and explaining in detail the cruelty behind fur farming and how our animal-assisted therapy program is helping the residents of Monroe County. It was a really great morning with a really great group of people.

Then, mom and Ridley headed south to Tavernier to the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter (FKCS) to surprise the kiddos after breakfast during their winter camp. The kids had no idea they were coming, so it was a really cool treat for them. The kids learned about all of the foxes here and had the chance to pet Ridley. FKCS is one of our official animal-assisted therapy partners, so anytime we get to visit or have them visit it is really special.

After that, mom and Ridley

walked across the parking lot to the Roth Building to visit our neighbor, Clarissa, who works in administration for the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.

Clarissa gets to hear me sing the song of my people every night. I am quite sure she loves it. I mean, who wouldn’t want to hear the sweet sound of fox screams at 2 a.m.? I saw a photo of Ridley posing with two female detectives. All I have to say is he should have been a little more charming. If it were me, I would have given them sweet kisses on the nose and let them pet me while I flashed my awardwinning smile. Ridley is not the fox to be meeting pretty women. I would like to invite those two detectives here to meet me to get the experience they deserve.

Now for some big news: We have been invited to attend the Island Boat show on Saturday, Jan. 20 and be special guests at the Sea Fox boat tent.

Who the heck knew there was a brand of boat called Sea Fox? Not this fox!

How freaking cool is that? I mean, can you see it? A Sea Fox boat wrapped with my handsome face on it. They haven’t suggested that, but you know I will. Ridley will be attending the boat show with mom.

I know, this whole report has been about Ridley. He has become quite the social butterfly lately and quite frankly, it’s fine with me. As long as he doesn’t try to steal my “Best Local Celebrity” title, all is good. You can find mom and Ridley at the Island Boat show happening at Island Christian on Jan. 20 from 10 a.m. to noon, and possibly longer if Ridley doesn’t get cranky.

Anywho, that’s all for this week.

You can stay up to date with all things fox at pawsitivebeginnings.org Until next time, Reef, over and out!

T

his handsome guy is Buddy and he is available for adoption from MarrVelous Pet Rescues.

Buddy was abandoned in Key Largo, left tied to a fence where he sat waiting patiently for someone to come and save him. Buddy is about 4 years old. He is the absolute sweetest boy. He loves people and playing with other dogs. He has basic training already, and he has been vetted and vaccinated and he will be neutered ASAP. Buddy has gorgeous light green eyes and a big infectious smile! If you’re looking for your next best friend, Buddy is ready to meet you. Apply at www.mprescues.org.

SAVE THE DATE Jan. 12-14 • Baygrass Bluegrass concert at Florida Keys Brewing Co, Islamorada. Visit Baygrass Bluegrass Festival on Facebook for more information.

Saturday, Jan. 13 • 40th annual Art Under the Oaks festival from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m at San Pedro Church Gardens, MM 89.5, bayside, Islamorada.

• Art Guild of the Purple Isles’ 58th Members’ Judged Art Show opening reception from 5 to 7 p.m at Keys History & Discovery Center, Islamorada.

Wednesday, Jan. 17 • JOY classes from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St. James the Fisherman Episcopal Church, MM 87.5, bayside, Islamorada. Visit justolderyouthinc. org to view the full schedule of activities.

• History of Diving Museum’s free “Immerse Yourself” presentation welcomes Madelyn Cholnoky and JD Reinbott to discuss the Iconic Reef Guardians program at 7 p.m.

Join in-person or on Zoom. RSVP to programs@divingmuseum.org.

Thursday, Jan. 18 • Morada Way Art Walk from 6 to 9 p.m. at Morada Way Arts & Cultural District, Islamorada.

Friday, Jan. 19 • Feed South Florida food collage and cooking demo from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at Key Largo library.

• Teen Night Out beach bonfire and movie “Back to the Future” from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Founders Park beach. For 6th graders and up.

Admission is $10.

• Friday Concert series welcomes Bing Futch at 6 p.m. at Key Largo library.

Jan. 19-21 • Ninth annual Island Boat Show at Island Community Church, MM 83.4, bayside, Islamorada. Visit islandboatshow.com to learn more.

18

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

1. Salon owner Joy Mahoney opened her new spot in December.

CONTRIBUTED 2. Joy Mahoney at work on a client’s eyelashes. 3.

Lashes were the original service offered by Mahoney’s new salon.

NEW YEAR, NEW CONFIDENCE New salon opens in Key Largo MELINDA VAN FLEET

S

www.keysweekly.com

elf-confidence and how you feel about your appearance, especially your skin, can be a crippling challenge for many people. If you are someone who has had skin issues, such as acne, you likely understand.

That’s why local, new business owner Joy Mahoney was excited about creating a comfortable, relaxing experience that was also affordable with a lot of options so people could feel good about themselves.

“I wake up and feel pretty,” she passionately says about her eyelashes. Lashes is the original service of Mahoney’s business model before she opened her new salon Sacred Order Beauty, located in Key Largo at MM 100.

Mahoney was a bartender for six years at Hog Heaven in Islamorada. She was working nights and weekends, which allowed her to do something else during the day.

“I’ve got to figure it out. I was getting my lashes done, so then I learned how to lash, and then I got my start,” she said. “I knew how they make me feel and wanted to bring that to other women.”

Mahoney explains about her focus and determination. “This was my vision to own my own business, so I went into school making the most of it. I found my niche in a couple of things like full body waxing and acne treatment.”

Finding her space in Key Largo was total alignment. “I had heard about the space, but it was upstairs, and I had no expectations. I was just going to get an idea of what was available.” The space had just opened up and was perfect, with sectioned-off areas to create private spaces for lashes/brows and another space for the treatments.

“When I got the keys, I was really excited, but it took a couple of days to sink in because I had so much to do. Once I got the walls painted and the treatment tables, I stopped and looked around, and that’s when it hit me: I had tears of joy; that moment made it real,” she said. “I moved in everything by myself and opened on Dec. 2. It was a labor of love, so it feels even more special.”

The perfectly decorated space is also ideal for small “treatment parties” such as bachelorette parties or girls’ night out.

Sacred Order Beauty offers waxing and a wide variety of skin treatments, but first, let’s talk lashes.

“I have the most fun with lashes. I can create different styles and lengths,” Mahoney said.

“For every client, I look at their eye shape and the space between their brows, and then I create a shape that I think will work the best for them, taking into account arches, down-turned, or upturned eyes. There is a whole technique to it.”

Sue Wright, owner of Boo Kee Sue Botanics in Islamorada, is a regular lash client and says, “Joy makes you feel so comfortable. … Getting lashes done is one of the best things I’ve done for myself.

I work outside every day and it’s great not having to think about smudged mascara.”

Mahoney has extreme patience. “For a volume set of lashes, it takes about three hours, but it also can vary depending on the number of lashes people have and need. I also offer lash tints and lifts as other options.”

Another client, Natalie Shea, owner of Shen Health Acupuncture in Tavernier, gets the lash lift and tint. “This is an ideal treatment for me as it’s low maintenance for work, yet my lashes look fresh daily for weeks without mascara — you are in the right hands.”

Mahoney wanted to offer a full assortment for

skin treatments as she remembers, “I would look at salon menus and didn’t know what to get, so it would deter me.”

“I really like working with acne and peels. Being able to see the progression and their skin heal.

It can be embarrassing to have skin issues, so to give people that confidence feels so good.” She also does back and butt waxing and treatments for both men and women.

A few of the most popular treatments are micro derm abrasions, chemical peels, dermaplaning, jelly masks and resurfacing. “The microneedle is also getting big, AKA The Vampire Facial. I draw their blood, spin the plasma, and then micro-needle in the plasma. I do use numbing cream, which brings the pain down a bit, but the needle doesn’t go far.”

“Dermaplaning exfoliates your skin, and it looks great,” Mahoney continued. “Then, when you apply makeup, it is smoother. And for people who choose a chemical peel, when you see that fresh skin underneath — it’s amazing.”

Sun damage down here can be tough, so Mahoney also works with some UV treatments. She is highly knowledgeable, and her passion shows through.

“If I put my mind to it, I will figure it out at all costs. The biggest challenge was figuring it out with the county, especially the tattoo license (which she uses for the brows currently and makeup in the future). Luckily my friend Jesse, who does hair at Cirque Salon, was very helpful. And talking with the lady at the health department, so I created a list — it was a learning curve.”

Connect on Instagram at @sacredorderbeauty, call 305-930-9218, or to look at services and schedule, go to https://sacredorderbeauty.glossgenius. com/

19

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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20

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

1829 NEWS CLIPPINGS A new academy and fire company; also, a ship runs aground

The house of Ellen Mallory, known as Cocoanut Grove, where she operated her boarding house for many years. DeWOLFE & WOOD COLLECTION/Florida Keys History Center

T

he island chain’s first newspaper was The Key West Register, and Commercial Advertiser and was first printed on Jan. 8, 1929. The operation was managed

by Thomas Eastin, who later became a U.S. marshal overseeing Florida’s Southern District.

The weekly newspaper was delivered to the public every Thursday. The following stories and advertisements were published in the paper between Feb. 12 and April 23, in Volume 1, Nos. 6-16.

• For Sale or Rent: “The house occupied at present by Mr. Felippi, on Whitehead street [indecipherable] save trouble, the rent in $20 per month. Apply to P.C. Greene.

• Jackson Hotel: Mrs. Ellen Mallory has the pleasure to inform her friends and the public, that she occupies the above establishment, and pledges herself to use her best exertions to give satisfaction to those who may favor her with their custom.

• Key West Academy: Will be opened on Monday the 2nd day of March, on Whitehead Street, a few doors above the residence of Col. P.C. Greene, and under the superintendence of Ede Van Evour, where will be taught Reading, Writing, Arithmetic, English Grammar — Surveying, Trigonometry, the higher branches of Mathematics, and Navigation if required.

• Stolen: From on board the sloop Emeline, between the 11th and 13th inst. a Camelot Cloak, lined with red, a fur collar, two capes, and a mark, or stain, under the cape, by which it may be known. A reasonable reward

will be given for its recovery. Thomas Taylor (Captain of the sloop) • $25 Reward: Will be given for the apprehension of the Villain or Villains, who, on FLORIDA Monday night last, KEYS cut and stole the HISTORY running rigging of WITH the Brig Alliance, BRAD lying in the Stream.

BERTELLI F.A. Browne & Co. An author, • Fire Comspeaker, Florida pany, &c: We are Keys historian and informed that a Honorary Conch. number of our citi- His latest book, zens have resolved “Florida Keys to form themselves History with Brad into a Fire Compa- Bertelli, Volume 1,” shares fasciny, and that a sub- nating glimpses scription sufficient into the rich and to purchase an sometimes surprising histories of Engine and Hose, the Florida Keys. will be raised. As this is for the public benefit, and a matter in which the corporation is concerned, it may not be amiss to suggest the propriety of the Town Council lending its aid for the promotion of so laudable purpose. The prosperity of the place is vitally connected with the commercial advantage which it affords, and when it is remembered the immense value of goods occasionally in the ware houses here, it must be evident that the formation of a Fire Company, regulated by proper rules, will be of great importance. The last reports of the finances of the town

of Key West, showed that we were not involved in debt, and as there is every reason to calculate upon a considerable increase of revenue during the present year, the Council may with propriety advance two or three hundred dollars for the promotion of this undertaking.

• Lightship: We understand that after a diligent and careful survey held upon the Light-Ship upon the Carysford Reef, which has been towed into this port for repair, the surveyors have reported her wholly incapable of being at all repaired, and have condemned her. She is a mess of dry rot from her keel to the upper works. A new vessel, it is hoped, will soon be provided in her place.

• His Catholic Majesty’s brig Curreo No. (1?) was wrecked on Carysford Reef on the 3d inst. The following particulars were given by Capt. Grover of the sloop Native, who brought the Captain, passengers, and crew to this port.

“Black Caesars’ Creek, April 3, 1829 — Two boats, with the Captain and 18 (unintelligible) on board the Native in co. with the splendid Qoreau, from his C.M. brig Curreo, she having run ashore the night before on Carsyford Reef. The Native and Splendid got on her way and proceed to the wreck & on going aboard, was informed by the captain that 23 passengers were on a raft – dispatched the Splendid after them — came up with them almost twenty miles to the northward, in the Gulf, and rescued them from their perilous situation. The two vessels lay along side the wreck until Sunday

morning, using every exertion to save the cargo, at 3 o’clock took the Captain, passengers and crew, and such of the effects as could be saved, and set sail for Key West — was shortly after informed by the Captain that his crew intended to revolt and carry the vessel to Matanzas, he requested, with a praiseworthy promptitude, to be armed to assist to defend the vessel — we armed ourselves accordingly, hoisted our colors upside down & was soon joined by the sloops Energy, Capt. Collins, Emmeline, Capt. Taylor, and Pizarro, Captain Hoxie, with their boats, who towed us into Key Rodoregas, where we lay all night, and were reinforced next morning by the Thistle, Capt. Brown, and Florida, Capt. Whatlington, and conveyed to Indian Key — there armed the sloop Capital, Captain Walker, and proceeded to Key West, where we arrived in safety on Tuesday the 7th April. The passengers and crew of the Curreo consisted of 45 men, all Spainards. The cargo saved consisted chiefly of specie.

• Matrimony: To render the married state more happy, the wife ought to make herself more amicable in the eyes of her husband as it is in her power; the pains she took to charm him before marriage, ought to be doubled now, to receive him with open arms and cheerful looks. From the day they leave the altar of hymen, wretchedness or felicity is placed in their hands. It is at their own option to be happy or miserable. They become from that period a little world of their own; a society consisting of love mutually connected with love.

21

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024 Exhibit “A” TO MEMBERS OF FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE ASSOC., INC. NOTICE OF ELECTION OF TWO DIRECTORS The Board of Directors of Florida Keys Electric Cooperative Association, Inc. (FKEC) has set the following date(s) for the District Elections for two positions on the Board of Directors: District 1 March 14, 2024

Key Largo area northeast of the section line common to Sections 6 and 7, TWP-62S, R. 39E, southerly of Mandalay Subdivision - Dade/Monroe County Line on U.S. 1 (including Ocean Reef) to Mile Marker 97.7

District 2 March 14, 2024

Tavernier area southeast of the section line as established southerly of Mandalay Subdivision and northeast of Snake Creek

The incumbent directors of the two districts have decided to stand for re-election. In the event only one qualified member from a district for each position is so nominated, that member shall be declared elected.

Elections may be conducted on the designated election date, by mail ballot, and/or by electronic means.

The notice of election and the election ballot and informational materials shall be mailed to every member residing or doing business in the district not less than fifteen (15) days prior to the election date. All ballots returned by mail must be received by the Cooperative or the Cooperative’s contracted third-party election management provider no later than one day prior to the official election date.

Directors elected at the district elections shall serve for a period of three years and will take office at the first regular or special meeting to be held on or after Saturday, April 13, 2024.

Members interested in becoming candidates and placing their names in nomination for membership on the Board of Directors are hereby notified of the qualifications and election procedures prescribed by the Bylaws of Florida Keys Electric Cooperative Association, Inc. A candidate for director must be a member of FKEC and a bona fide resident of the district he/she represents and have 12 months of residency in the area served by the Cooperative. The candidate must not be a minor. No candidate may in any way be employed by or have a substantial financial interest in a competing enterprise or a business selling electric energy or supplies to FKEC or be the incumbent for an elective public office in connection with which a salary or compensation is paid.

Candidates must submit a nominating petition with fifteen (15) or more signatures of members residing in the voting district no less than forty-five (45) days prior to the date of the district election specified above. Nominating petitions for District 1 must be received by FKEC by Noon on Monday, January 29, 2024, and petitions for District 2 must be received by FKEC by Noon on Monday, January 29, 2024.

(Please allow time for verification of signatures).

Nomination petition forms may be obtained from the FKEC Tavernier Headquarters.

A copy of the FKEC bylaws may be obtained from FKEC offices.

FACTS FROM THE TAX COLLECTOR

Sam Steele

monroetaxcollector.com 305.295.5000

JANUARY • Save 2% on your property tax by paying in January.

• All rental properties must also have a local business tax regardless of how long they • As of January 8, 2024, the tax roll is are being rented.

81% collected, or $340,947,039.80.

• All our offices will be closed • Any property that is being rented on Monday, January 15, 2024, for six months or less must have a in observance of Martin Luther tourist development tax account.

King Jr. Day. • As a reminder, online rental platforms (Airbnb, VRBO, etc.)

DO NOT remit the 5% tourist development tax to our office. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to ensure the tax has been remitted.

• Please visit our website and follow us on Facebook for helpful information, forms, applications, and important announcements.

The election will be given widespread publicity prior to the election date.

By Order of the Board of Directors Florida Keys Electric Cooperative Association, Inc.

Follow us on

for more important tax information.

22

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

KEYS HISTORY & Visit FLORIDA DISCOVERY CENTER

LEAVING A LEGACY WITH A GIFT

23

Open

Tuesday-Sunday 10aM-5pM 82100 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036 305-922-2237

New challenge financially aids nonprofits now and into the future JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Key Largo resident Jill Kuehnert thought on and off about her will, more specifically the idea of a planned gift to a near-and-dear cause.

She put the idea of a legacy gift in the same category as going for a tattoo.

“I’m not opposed to doing it but have been waiting for a really compelling concept, window of opportunity and trusted artist to get me to go through with it,” said Kuehnert, the president of the Upper Keys Business & Professional Women.

Then came the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys’ new legacy giving challenge that aims to aid the financial sustainability of Monroe County nonprofits today and well into the future. And thanks to a gift from Key West resident Jean Stearns, those who provide a gift of at least $25,000 — or as much as $1 million from their estate to their cause through the Community Foundation — will be able to choose a nonprofit to receive anywhere from a $2,500 to $10,000 check today.

Kuehnert said her tattoo moment finally came, having learned about the new challenge. Over the past two years, Kuehnert said she familiarized herself with, and came to appreciate, the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys’ mission to make the Florida Keys a better place. She participated in the foundation’s annual Leadership Success Academy in 2022. She also worked along with the Community Foundation to establish an endowment fund for the Upper Keys Business & Professional Women. Recently, the BPW presented scholarships to four women from the community totaling $4,305.65.

“I’ve been impressed with CFFK’s creativity in using funds bequeathed to them to inspire more giving and growth in the community,” said Kuehnert, who became the first Upper Keys resident to make a gift through the challenge to support the BPW’s scholarship fund. Dollars for the

THURS Jan. 11 Webb & Davidson 5-9 p.m.

FRI Jan. 12 Brothers of Others 5-9 p.m.

Michael Trixx @ Sunset SAT Jan. 13 Abstract Radio 5-9 p.m.

1. Jill Kuehnert and husband Glenn Wright. CONTRIBUTED. 2. Recently, the Upper Keys BPW awarded more than $4,000 to four women to continue their studies and training in their respective fields. NADA KHALAF JONES/Contributed

program are designed to help local women gain a professional edge through education and training.

Elizabeth Brown, vice president of philanthropy for the Community Foundation, said she worked with Kuehnert on the scholarship fund. Brown said Kuehnert was quick to say “yes” to establishing a gift.

“While she was first on in the Upper Keys to say ‘yes,’ I’m happy to say she’s not the only one who’s jumped on,” Brown said. “It’s easy and an amazing way for people to contribute to things they’re spending so much time on now. It’s a great opportunity to make sure the place they care so much about has resources for the future.

“The Upper Keys BPW is an amazing organization making an impact in the community,” Brown continued. “I think they are doing incredible work for professional women in the community, They’re thinking forward to build a legacy.”

Kuehnert said she’s proud to have made the decision now.

“I know that this community and place which has come to mean so much to me will benefit from my being here, long after I’m gone,” she said.

More information about the legacy giving challenge is at cffk.org/ legacychallenge. Those interested in potentially establishing a scholarship or a fund can email Brown at elizabeth@cffk.org.

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24

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 11, 2024

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