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CONTENTS

About the Flea Market

MAP 18-21 Attendees of this year’s flea market have some ground to cover at Founders Park. Find your favorite vendors and know where the ATM, bathrooms and the Rotary food booth are. Looking for a specific vendor? Find the listing on adjacent pages. And don’t forget, there’s the interactive map that you can find on your phone.

It’s the Upper Keys Rotary Club’s signature fundraiser, and it’s hitting the quarter-century mark this year. The Gigantic Nautical Flea Market presented by Richard C. Fox Plumbing is set for Feb. 22-23 at Founders Park in Islamorada. The major shopping event has more than 250 vendors from arts and crafts to fishing. Also, be sure to check out new and used boats, dive equipment and more! With waves of shoppers entering the park, the annual shopping event has raised millions in direct scholarship aid that’s benefitted local graduating students and current college scholars for decades. Rotarians from other clubs provide significant volunteer support to make this event a “gigantic” success.

SAILING TO SUCCESS 22 A 2016 Coral Shores graduate is ready to set sail upon graduation from California Maritime Academy. Read more about this Rotary recipient’s journey and what’s in store next. LAUNCHING TO EXCELLENCE 12-13 A Coral Shores graduate has taken her academic career to another level. Read more about her journey from the Keys to Gainesville, her inspirations and her internships with Fortune 500 companies. ROTARY RECIPIENTS 24-31 Every dollar raised at the Gigantic Nautical Flea Market is a dollar well spent for the betterment of the Keys. Funds generated from the biggest event of the year go to assist in a student’s dream, with scholarships that help pave career paths and further educational experiences. Check out their stories and how Rotary helped them. THE CLUBS 10 Learn more about the three Rotary clubs in the Upper Keys that are working to serve the community from its students to the elderly.

Published MMXX

The Weekly Newspapers 9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL. 33050 P. 305.743.0844 F. 305.743.0866

Gigantic Nautical Flea Market 2020

“We call it “The Boat Show with a beach!” said Rotarian Frank Derfler. “This year we are proud to introduce our presenting sponsor, Richard C. Fox Plumbing of the Florida Keys. Rotary uses the money from this event to fund more than $100,000 in academic and technical scholarships for Keys students every year.” New this year is a raffle for a beautiful Dream Maker hot tub donated by the Pool Spa Billiard Store. The odds of winning this $4,000 hot tub are good. Buy a lottery ticket at the show or email by going to keysrotary.org and clicking “contact.”

DATES: The event goes from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 22, and Sunday, Feb. 23, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Held at Founders Park, MM 87, bayside, Islamorada. PARKING: Parking is at Coral Shores High School, MM 89, oceanside. The shuttle bus runs continuously on both days.

Upper Keys Office 91760 Overseas Hwy. Tarvernier, FL 33070 P. 305.363.2957 www.keysweekly.com

GATE: The gate is located on the southwest end of the park at the Fire Station. Suggested admission is $5. FOOD: Rotary is serving an all-you-can-eat breakfast for $5. Can’t beat that! Affordable lunch items are also available.

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Left: Rotary members serve up drinks thanks to Islamorada Brewery & Distillery. IAN WILSON/Keys Weekly Below: People stroll through the Gigantic Nautical Flea Market at Founders Park.

25 YEARS AND COUNTING It takes a village By Frank Derfler This is the 25th year that the Upper Keys Rotary Club has produced the Gigantic Nautical Flea Market. The bottom line is that we are able to make substantial academic and technical school scholarship awards to an average of more than 50 Coral Shores High School graduates every year. About half of the awards go to students who are already in a college, university, or technical training and proving themselves. The total scholarship awards from the Gigantic Nautical Flea market come close to $200,000 annually. That money stays in the Keys.

Once or twice a year visitors from up north come to the Upper Keys Rotary Club and say, "Hey, we want to do this. How do you do it?" We tell them that it's easy. You simply have to get substantial help from the local town or village like we get from the village of Islamorada, receive skilled volunteer help from an organization like the Florida Keys Electric Cooperative, get craftsmen from people like general contractor CBT Construction, Island Construction Management, electrical contractor Ken Gentes, and Island Elevator. Then you need a hard working group of over 100 Rotarians and more than 200 other highly organized volunteers from the community.

Gigantic Nautical Flea Market 2020

It really helps to have the support of companies like Islamorada Brewing and Distillery. Oh, you also need a venue like Founders Park so you can create what we call "The Boat Show with a Beach.â€? Success means having loyal annual sponsors like Hurricane Boat Lifts, Caribee Boat Sales, the Islander Resort, and many others. Plus, you need a major presenting sponsor like Fox Plumbing of the Florida Keys. Finally, it helps to hold the event the weekend after the Miami Boat Show so you have vendors with national reach who come to south Florida for the week. That's all.

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KNOW WHERE YOU’RE GOING! INTERACTIVE MAP Looking for an easy way to maneuver around the Gigantic Nautical Flea Market this year? You can find a map found in this guide, but you can also get a map guide on your phone. Visit www.rotarymarket.info and search the show by vendor name or by the types of products they sell. At the show, connect to the event via WiFi by selecting the “GNFM” WiFi connection on your phone, and you will automatically be routed to the interactive map. WiFi is provided by Monifi. net WHAT IS IT The 25th annual Gigantic Nautical Flea Market presented by Richard C. Fox Plumbing takes place Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 22-23, at Founders Park in Islamorada. From 35 vendors in 1995, the flea market has grown to more than 250 today. Members from the local Rotary clubs are among the hundreds of volunteers who will be out making the event fun for all. Despite organizers’ best efforts, there are some traffic tie-ups. Festival-goers are best served by parking at Coral Shores High School, MM 90, oceanside, and taking the free shuttle to the park. WHY WE DO IT Over the past two years, the Upper Keys Rotary Club and Key Largo Rotary Club combined have written more than $250,000 in checks to benefit students from Coral Shores High School, as well as some locally home schooled students. Graduating from high school, many students say assistance from Rotary helps them continue their journey to their ultimate goal of landing a job.

Gigantic Nautical Flea Market 2020

The Gigantic Nautical Flea Market has raised nearly $500,000 for direct scholarship aid for local students over the past six years. Over the past two years, direct benefits have been paid to over 20 colleges and universities to benefit just over 180 students. Many students receive continuing scholarships beyond their freshman year. In addition to professional degrees, Rotary clubs also support students in technical schools, such as aircraft maintenance training, marine engine maintenance, law enforcement and EMT training. The two clubs also support local students through donations to the Take Stock in Children Program. The money, which is matched by the state legislature, stays in Monroe County. Take Stock in Children, Inc. is a nonprofit organization, transforming Florida one student at a time. Working in every county throughout Florida, our mission is to break the cycle of poverty for low-income, academically qualified students by providing opportunities for a post-secondary education.

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THE BIG THREE

Rotary clubs support young, elderly In the Upper Keys, three clubs are striving to make the community and world a better place to live, work and play. While clubs support all activities of Rotary, they put the focus on the generations young and old. Dedicated members share a passion for community service and friendship.

Rotary Club of Key Largo Sunset Year Chartered: 2018 Members: 40 President: Lisa Feliciano Philanthropic Priority: Assisting the elderly in the Upper Keys Fundraiser: Key Largo Boat Parade, Dec. 12, 2020 Culture: Fun and friends for a good cause Meetings: First and third Mondays at 6 p.m. Dennyâ€™s lounge, MM 97, Keylargosunsetrotary.org

Rotary Club of the Upper Keys Year Chartered: 1968 Members: 88 President: Joe Roth Philanthropic Priority: Serving youth through scholarships and mentorships Fundraiser: Gigantic Nautical Flea Market, held the last weekend in February Culture: Service, fellowship, fun Meetings: Every Tuesday at noon at Capt. Craigâ€™s, MM 90 keysrotary.com

Gigantic Nautical Flea Market 2020

Rotary Club of Key Largo Year Chartered: 1990 Members: 40 President: Laura Lietart Philanthropic Priority: Vocational scholarships for Upper Keys residents of all ages Fundraiser: Take Stock in Children Backcountry Challenge, September 2020 Culture: Caring family Meetings: Every Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. at Playa Largo Resort & Spa, MM 97, bayside Keylargorotary.org

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

Entering Coral Shores, Gonzalez immersed herself into her studies while becoming involved in various clubs. She graduated as valedictorian and received a scholarship to attend the University of Florida. Between scholarships and hard work, Gonzalez says she’s able to self-fund her college education. She says she’s been financially independent since 2015, and now that she’s off to college, her parents don’t have the burden of any expenses. Gonzalez has three sisters, two of which are in college.

Natalia Gonzalez is pictured with Katie Burke, senior mission manager for the Vandenberg Air Force Base SpaceX launch site. CONTRIBUTED

ROCKETING TO SUCCESS Local high school grads are expanding their horizons and diving into new, exciting adventures. And thanks in part to local Rotary clubs, Keys students are obtaining that extra financial support they need to attend their university, technical school or training program of choice.

Gonzalez says the market crash in 2008 was a life-changing experience for the family and her. It forced her to grow up fast, she said. And it made her fully committed to school. “I waitressed at DJs for three years… so did my sisters,” she says. “We all made the decision knowing that our parents couldn’t pay for college, so we had to do everything in our power to make it happen.. There was a strong motivation there.”

Among the many student standouts who’ve received local Rotary support is Coral Shores Class of 2016 graduate Natalia Gonzalez. Now in her fourth year at the University of Florida, the mechanical engineering major and sustainability minor is diving into her studies and excelling having completed four internships with three Fortune 500 companies. Born in Miami and raised in Orlando, Gonzalez moved to the islands with her family during her freshman and sophomore years. Her grandpa owned a home in the Keys in the 1950s, and it became a second home for the family having spent summers and vacations there during her younger years. “When the market crashed, we moved to our grandparents in Tavernier and we became permanent Keys residents,” she said.

Gigantic Nautical Flea Market 2020

At college, Gonzalez studies 100-plus hours a week. She says inspirations to pursue engineering and sustainability originated from her time in the Keys playing with horseshoe crabs, snorkeling and seeing the crazy, vibrant wildlife. Growing up, she noticed a significant change in the ecology of the Keys.

Gonzalez says she’s always had math and science skills, so she decided to use that gift to confront the Earth’s environmental issues. “Basically, schools of fish that I used to see swimming were gone. The reefs were bleached and everything looked more barren,” she says. “I joined science class and got dive certified and did coral restoration through a course at Coral Shores. I realized how significant a change there’s been in our oceans. It was hard for me. I grew up in nature and had a strong connection. It made me have a purpose in life, and that’s to contribute to sustainable causes.” Since college, Gonzalez has completed four professional internships. During her freshman year, she received two internships; one with Proctor & Gamble in Pennsylvania as a

manufacturing engineering intern and another with General Electric in the power sector.

“I think that knowledge is a direct path to gaining influence and having more opportunity to make an impact,” she says. “If I have access to getting my PhD and taking my knowledge that far, why not utilize it?”

Her sophomore year, she returned to Proctor & Gamble, but this time in California as a manufacturing engineer. She turned down a third internship with the company to seek other opportunities. That’s when she sought out and interviewed with SpaceX.

As for her scholarship from Rotary, Gonzalez says it covered the gap and allowed her to put all the focus on her academics.

“It’s the Holy Grail of internships,” she said. “The line during the career showcase was long. I waited in line and had to be filtered through three different recruiters. The good thing about it was I had three internships already under my belt. By time I got to SpaceX, I was a viable candidate.” And a viable candidate she was. With a 5 percent acceptance rate, Gonzalez was the only intern accepted to the Vandenberg Space Launch site SLC -40 in customer operations. “I was the interface

“I’m grateful to the Upper Keys Rotary. They made it possible for me to be able to study during semesters without having to take on a job,” she said. “If I were taking courses and had a job, in hypothetical sense had I not receive funds, I would not be able to contribute much time to my studying. I wouldn’t have a 4.0 GPA. And I wouldn’t have earned the internship opportunity I earned.” Gonzalez says she wants to return to Coral Shores in the future to not only see old teachers, but to also inspire students that “anything’s possible if you give it your all.” Natalia SpaceX: Natalia Gonzalez at SpaceX where she interned. CONTRIBUTED

between customers and the company itself,” she said. “I dealt a lot with the U.S. Air Force, international space agencies, satellite companies, NRO and NASA. I was hands-on with the Falcon 9 rocket launch and landing. They’re the only company that knows how to land using boosters. I got to see that with my own eyes. It was incredible.” While she received a return offer, she turned it down as she didn’t want to lose sight of what she wanted to do in sustainable engineering. She’s currently conducting a year’s worth of energy research analyzing energy consumption in the U.S. and grid capabilities for more sustainable infrastructure and energy storage. Gonzalez says she plans to go to grad school and wants to obtain a PhD.

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BATHROOMS are located at the entrance and next to the amphitheater. Also, Porta-Potties are scattered all over the park. IS THERE WIFI? Yes. Look for the “GNFM” signal on your phone for a fast WiFi connection. Call up a mobile map/list of vendors at rotarymarket.info SEE THE INDEX On page 20, for a list of vendors and booth locations. PARKING At Coral Shores High School (MM 90, Oceanside) and ride constantly running shuttles.

166 165

Beer Cart

Medical Tent ATM

159 158 157 156 155 154 153 152 151 150 164 163 162 161 160 149 148 147 146

E ANC NTR NE MAI

35 36 37 38 31 32 33 34 28 29 30 27 25 26 23 24 Information Booth Lost and found

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Baseball Diamond 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7

— OLD AS RSE OVE

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US 1 Bathrooms

Shuttle Stop

Gigantic Nautical Flea Market 2020

137 136 52

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58 71 72 9 5 73 74 0 6 70 1 6 69 62 68 63 67 64 66 65

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374 373 372 371 370 369 Pl 368 ay gr 367 ou 366 nd

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Beer Booth 404 408 403 407 90 Bloody 402 406 401 91 405 Maryâ€™s 111 110 92 109 108 93 94 95 ATM 364-363 362 361 360 359 358 357 356 355 354 353 352 351 350 349 348 96 270 347 346 345 344 343 342 341 269 97 98 268 265 340 99 266 311 267 312 313 314 315 316 317 318 319 320321 322 323 324 325 339 100 326 327 328 329 330 331 332 333 331 332 333 409 410 411 264 310 309 308 307 306305 304303 302 301 300299 298297 296 595 338 101 294 293 292 291 290 289 288 290 289 288 414 413 412 263 337 102 262 336 103 261 271 272 273 274 275 276 277 278 279 280281 282 283284 285 286 287 233 259 335 104 260 251 250 249248 247 246 245 244243 242 241 240 239 238 237 236 235 234 415 416 334 105 232 231 230 106 418 Tiki Bar 258 257 209 210 211 212 213 214 215 216 217 218 219 220 221 222 223 224225 226 227 228 229 417 256 208207206 205 204203 202 201 200199 198 197 196 195 194 193 192 191 255 254 Beer Booth 253 252 167 168 169 170 171 172 173 174 175 176 177 178 179 180 181 182 183 184 185 186 187 188 189 190

Bathrooms

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Gigantic Nautical Flea Market 2020

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283. Ugly Fish Apparel 284. Red Rum International 285. Nora Fleming 286. The Salty Sea Monkey 287. Save Bait Life, LLC. 288-289. The Reel Chase, LLC 290. Richards Custom Offshore Lures 291. Indigo Instinct 292. Capt. Yrrrs Nautical Treasures 293. 1972 294-296. Extreme Fishing Gear 297. Lionfish Jewelry 298-299. WEARRAW 300. Samuels Merl 301. T-Toplights.com 302-303. Sapone Soap 304-305. Xact Customs 306. Jolene Allison 307. Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters 308-310. Art Sensations 311. Keys Marine Electronics, Inc. 312-313. Chesapeake Jewelers 314. Rescue Tape 315. NAS Metal Works 316. Coral Cove Islamorada 317. Megateeth Fossils 318-319. SubSafe 320. S & E Custom Inc 321. Debbie Leonard 322. Nauti Mermaid Designs, Palm Beach 323. Innovative Marine Products 324. Colonial Rustics 325. Cas Marine Service 326. BNK Island Creations 330-331. Wave Armor 332. EisenShine 333. The Pool Spa Billiard Store 334-338. Unique Marine, Inc. 339-340. The Pool Spa Billiard Store 341-343. Broward Design Center 344-345. Aquablue Marine 346-347. Wave Armor 348. Sea & Land Upholstery, LLC 349. Shows and Son Woodworks 350. BirdsSquirrelsN 351-352. Jordans Outdoor Fun 353. Trident Fishing & Marine Supply

354. Cotner Offshore 355. The Jerky Hut/Mojo Jerky 356. Coconut Critters 357. EZ-docks Florida 358-359. Xcaliber Marine Inc 360. Apparel 4U, INC. 361. The Fisher Man 362. Michael Lombardi 363-364 Chainsaw Sculptures 365. Project Graduation 366. United Way of the Florida Keys 367. Ocean Studies Charter School 368. Biscayne Bay Foundation 369. Leave No Trace 370. Treasure Village Montessori 371. American Cancer Society 372. PKS Band 373. EmployU 374. Elks Club 375. Florida Bay Forever 376. American Legion Post 145 377-378. Coast Guard Auxillary 379. Chi Sigma Sorority 380. History Of Diving Museum 381. Florida Keys Mosquito Control District 382. Nick Sheashan Dolphin Rodeo Scholarship Fund 383. Ryan Shines 384. Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responders 385. FAVOR 386. Florida Keys Outreach Coalition 387. MCSD Head Start 401. Richard C. Fox Plumbing 405. Up Your Style in Key West 406. KADOLLU DESIGNS 407-408. Tom Thumb 409-410. Pool Spa Billiard Store 411-413. Seabrooke 414. J&B Marine 415. Keys Life Magazine 416. Extreme Peelers 417-418. Gary Romanoff

GIGANTIC NAUTICAL FLEA MARKET keysrotary.com

Sam Kraus inside the ship. CONTRIBUTED

Sam Kraus with mom, Nicole. CONTRIBUTED

SAILING TO SUCCESS Kraus ready to hit the seas

Coral Shores Class of 2016 graduate Sam Kraus is sailing to success. A senior at California Maritime Academy, Kraus is one semester away before shipping out.

“A lot of these places are very big maritime nations,” he said. “It was cool to be on the ship and see the maritime traditions of some of these places.”

Upon graduation, Kraus left the Keys and trekked west to the Cal Maritime Academy in Vallejo to study marine transportation. His journey to the academy was inspired by his cousin who also attended Cal Maritime.

Just recently, Kraus passed his Coast Guard licensing tests for his third mate unlimited tonnage any oceans license. A third mate is a licensed officer of the deck department of a merchant ship. The third mate is a watchstander and customarily the ship’s safety officer.

“He would come into school and speak in commercial fishing classes,” he said. “He kind of showed me the path.” Kraus says the experience at the academy has been different from the normal college experience. With the uniform and grooming also come the rules and showing up on time. But he’s enjoyed the whole ride and the many classes he’s taken — and they’re not ones a student necessarily takes at your ordinary college.

To get the license, Kraus had to pass seven tests — and he did. Those who take the Coast Guard tests and pass get to ring a bell on campus. Out of a group of 70, Kraus was among the 20 who rang the bell. When he graduates, Kraus says he plans to put his license to use. “I’d like to get on a ship that’s doing cool work… somewhere to see other parts of the world and places that are doing cool things in maritime,” he said.

“I’ve taken everything from firefighting and navigation to ship handling and bridge simulators,” he said. “The other thing that’s been cool is I got to go out on a training ship over the summer. I’ve done two of those trips.”

Kraus says he’s thankful for Upper Keys Rotary Club’s support the past four years, especially having gone out of state for his education.

His freshman year, Kraus sailed from Vallejo to El Salvador and then to Hawaii before returning. And this past summer, he sailed through the Panama Canal to places including Barbados, the Azores and Portugal.

“The scholarship I received has been a great help to deal with those costs,” he said. “It’s nice knowing the community is still backing me up even though I’m across the country.”

Gigantic Nautical Flea Market 2020

Sea You at the

Upper Keys Rotary Club

25th Annual Gigantic

NAUTICAL FLEA MARKET PRESENTED BY:

FEBRUARY 22 & 23 2020

Saturday 8am - 5pm • Sunday 9am - 3pm

Founders Park • MM 87 Bayside • Islamorada sponsored by

“The Boat Show with a Beach!” • New & Used Boats • Fishing Gear • Clothing • Marine Equipment • Dive Gear • Marine Products • Electronics • Antiques • Nautical Arts & Crafts • Dock Equipment FREE SHUTTLE BOTH DAYS DURING SHOW HOURS FROM CORAL SHORES HIGH SCHOOL, MM 90

$5 Contribution to the Scholarship Fund Kids 17 and Under Free

Rotary is ser ving BREAKFAST both days: All You Can Eat for $6.

also sponsored by (305) 453-0553 Sales • Service • Rental

Bluewater ATM & Vending • Island Construction Management Ken Gentes Electrical Contractor • Forest Tek Lumber Island Elevator • SUN Radio • CBT Construction Development ISLAMORADA

www.GiganticNauticalFleaMarket.org

have helped me pay for my undergrad schooling and have taken a bunch of student debt off my plate. UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA AMY NEKHAILA

THANKFUL RECIPIENTS The Gigantic Nautical Flea Market will see thousands over a twoday period frequenting vendors, finding fishing gear and artistic creations and enjoying drinks and eating food. Behind the scenes are the many Rotarians and volunteers working for the students of the Upper Keys. Funds raised each year go to support a student’s education. And each year, scholarship recipients provide an update on their academic adventures and how they’re doing. Here’s a snippet of what Keys graduates are doing and achieving today, and what’s ahead in their future.

“Your education will take you to places you never thought were possible.”

Gigantic Nautical Flea Market 2020

My name is Amy Nekhaila and I'm attending the University of Florida. I'm currently pursuing a double major in psychology and English with an interest in counseling psychology. Aside from school, I also work with children in a local tutoring center. Receiving this scholarship from the Upper Keys Rotary Club has aided my family and I through many of the unexpected expenses that have come along in the first year. I couldn’t be more fortunate knowing this scholarship was able to support me during those times and future endeavors. This scholarship has allowed me to focus intently on my studies as well as motivate me throughout the semester. REBECCA GALVAN My name is Rebecca Galvan and I am currently majoring in applied physiology and kinesiology with a focus on exercise physiology at the University of Florida. I am currently on a prephysician assistant track with the hopes of becoming a physician’s assistant, and maybe someday being able to come back and work in the Upper Keys. I live on campus and recently was hired as a residential assistant in the dorm I was living in last year! After this year, I’ll be applying to PA school with hopes of becoming a “double Gator” while trying to land an internship with an Urgent Care clinic near campus. I am so grateful for the Rotary scholarship because they

JADY LOPEZ My name is Jady Lopez and I attend the University of Florida. I am currently enrolled in my third year of college. My major is microbiology and my goal for the future is to become a surgeon or to do genetic research. I am currently employed at Big Lou’s Pizzeria. I am also a part of the American Medical Student Association. I am so grateful that I was able to receive the Rotary Scholarship in order to help me be successful and motivated in my future. I am thankful for the wonderful opportunity to continue on my dreams.

JACK YEAGER Hi, I'm Jack Yeager and I am a sophomore at the University of Florida. I'm currently enrolled in the pace program at my school, and it has given me an opportunity to be so much more flexible with my schedule. What pace means is that all of my classes are online so I technically have no specific times I have to go to class. This gives me the opportunity to go out and do things many students can't do. One program that I am now a part of is Mentor GNV. In this program, you get paired up with an at-risk third grader and meet up several times a week as a mentor. While this was my first semester doing this, I can tell you I love the program and can't wait to continue my path as a mentor. I'm majoring in business administration and I love it. The Rotary scholarship enabled me to be up in Gainesville and have financial freedoms.

keysrotary.com

WILLIAM BUTLER

PAIGE JOYCE

I am a first-year student at the University of Florida currently studying civil engineering and applied physiology and kinesiology. Although my studies are in those fields, I plan on becoming a commercial airline pilot in the future. I currently have my private pilot's license and I am training at the Gainesville airport to get my IFR rating. I have used all of the Upper Keys Rotary scholarship money towards my housing in a dorm, which has extremely helped in being able to live in Gainesville.

My name is Paige Joyce and I am attending the University of Florida. At UF, I am studying economics and political science on the pre-law track. I am also involved in several organizations on campus, including Dance Marathon as an emerging leader. The Rotary has provided me with the opportunity to pursue a degree I am passionate about, without the stress of taking on large financial burdens, leaving me time to take part in any and all activities I can on campus. I’m so thankful for not only their monetary contributions, but also the continued support they offer me and so many other students.

SOPHIE WILLIAMS I am a first-year honors student at the University of Florida pursuing a bachelor's degree in either biological engineering or industrial and systems engineering. My career goal is to work for a biotechnology or oil firm optimizing the production of algae-based biofuels for human use. I am involved in Stomp the Swamp (UF's rhythm tap-dancing team) and am currently applying to the UF Engineering Ambassadors program to serve as a liaison between the public and the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering. I am thankful for the scholarship money I received from Upper Keys Rotary and the hard work of volunteers at the Gigantic Nautical Flea Market because this has allowed me to focus on my studies and involvement with the knowledge that I have the funds to pursue my dreams.

Gigantic Nautical Flea Market 2020

ANNA LANGLEY My name is Anna Langley and I am a freshman studying biological engineering at UF. I start most mornings at 6 a.m. on Newnans Lake with the crew rowing team before my 8 a.m. class, and spend most of my afternoons in my professor’s office hours preparing for my calculus 2 exams. Next year, I hope to get involved in engineering research on campus as well as spend more time competing with the biological engineering design team in the national design competitions. I am so grateful for the Rotary scholarship I received because it allowed me to work less and focus on school more."

FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY BROOKE PEACOCK My name is Brooke Peacock and I am currently attending Florida State University. This past spring I went through a selective review and was accepted into the interior design and architecture program. Now that I have entered the program I spend countless hours in the studio drawing plans and building models. Spring of 2020, I plan on joining an intramural volleyball team with my roommate when I’m not stuck in the studio. Over the summer I will be applying for internships at an architecture firm — hopefully one down here in the Keys or Miami area. I am extremely grateful for the scholarship I received from the Upper Keys Rotary as it has helped me pay my tuition and buy materials for my demanding major. LILI TORRES My name is Lili Torres, former co-president of Interact Club 2016-17, and I go to Florida State University. My major is finance with a minor in commercial entrepreneurship with plans to go to graduate school and earn an MBA. I just moved into an apartment off-campus for my junior year. This wouldn’t have been possible without the continued support from Rotary. To me, my scholarship from Rotary represents reward for the past, opportunity for the future, and motivation for the present. In the past semesters, many opportunities that I have been given would not have been attainable without my scholarship.

JACKIE OSHABEN

AUDREY BUTLER

ADRIANA ORNELAS

I am a freshman at Florida State University studying social entrepreneurship. I am excited to continue school with the help of the Upper Keys Rotary Scholarship I received. It allows me to focus more on my classes and less on the financial stress of college.

My name is Audrey Butler and I am currently attending Florida State University. This year is my junior year and I am majoring in accounting and plan on getting a master's degree in accounting. The Rotary scholarship helps ease the burden on my parents of paying for three kids in college and helps pay for my room and board. I am currently a part of the FSU Women’s Club Soccer team and Beta Alpha Psi, an accounting fraternity. I am very thankful for the help that the scholarship has provided me throughout my college years.

I am a sophomore at the University of Central Florida, where I am majoring in accounting. I am currently a full-time student and have a part-time job. I am also on the search for an internship! Juggling everything can become difficult at times, but the very generous Upper Keys Rotary has been very helpful throughout my journey.

MORGAN WHITTLE My name is Morgan Whittle and I am a freshman at Florida State University. I’m currently pursuing a degree in theatre. With the help of the amazing support I get from Rotary, I am able to have such a weight lifted off my shoulders while paying for my classes, and I couldn’t be more grateful for all that they have done. SHANNON MCCORMICK My name is Shannon McCormick and I go to Florida State University, and I am currently an exploratory major going into my second semester. I am a part of some organizations on campus such as Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, Best Buddies, and Dance Marathon. The Rotary Scholarship has helped me be able to pay for most of my living expenses, which I am so grateful for! I hope you all have an excellent time at the flea market this year!

Gigantic Nautical Flea Market 2020

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA JACQUELINE HADDAD My name is Jacqueline Haddad and I am currently a senior at the University of Central Florida. I am a sociology major and a psychology minor and also a member of Kappa Delta Sorority. Thinking about graduating from the largest college in the nation this year and coming from such a small town is so surreal and has allowed me to expand my horizons and prepare me for what’s to come in the near future. The Upper Keys Rotary’s support has allowed me to grow throughout college and I’m so thankful for their generosity.

HANNAH VINNEY My name is Hannah Vinney and I’m studying at the University of Central Florida. I’m currently majoring in music education and oboe performance. I perform in all of the ensembles at UCF, including Wind Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, and Oboe Trio. I plan to teach middle school in the future, but we’ll see after my internship! I am currently the Collegiate Chapter President of the UCF National Association for Music Education and the Collegiate State Secretary of that organization. I am very grateful for the Rotary Scholarship, as I likely wouldn’t have been able to fund my education without it. Thank you for your continued support!

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NICHOLAS WAHBA My name is Nicholas Wahba and I’m a thirdyear transfer student at the University of Central Florida (UCF). I’m currently majoring in emerging media – graphic design track. I chose this major because I’ve always had a passion for creativity and art. Throughout my major, I’ve had the opportunity to work firsthand on several drawing projects and creating 2D art. As I continue on my career path in emerging media, there are multiple goals that I continue to strive for. One of my future goals is to maximize my education by earning a master's degree in web design. I will always be grateful for what the Rotary Club has done for me and I hope I can show my appreciation by giving back to the community that gave back to me, and now the Orlando community.

FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY ERIN ALLISON I’m Erin Allison and I’m a senior at Florida International University. Last year, after my internship with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, I pursued the wonderful opportunity to serve as the programs coordinator for the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center in Tavernier. I coordinate volunteers, outreach, and education programs, while having the unique experience of training ambassador birds, like Aria our non-releasable Merlin! This position aligns exactly with my career goals and it's all thanks to the Upper Keys Rotary Club for supporting and guiding me along the way!

FLORIDA GULF COAST UNIVERSITY

MOLLY HUNTER

FLORIDA SOUTHWESTERN STATE COLLEGE

My name is Molly Hunter and I am in my third year at Florida Gulf Coast University studying environmental science. I am currently doing an internship with the Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve in Fort Myers. We monitor wildlife, restore ecosystems, and provide public outreach. I am so grateful for the Upper Keys Rotary for providing me with this scholarship to aid me in my college endeavors. This scholarship has made all the difference and I cannot be more appreciative to the Rotary Club and all the individuals who made it happen.

TOMISHA CALDWELL My name is Tomisha Caldwell and I attend Florida Southwestern State College here in Fort Myers. My major is social work, and after I finish school, I hope to work with mental health and substance abuse victims and get them the help they need in order to have a happier life. Being in college has been the peak of my life and I am enjoying all of the athletic games and meeting so many new people from all over the country. I am grateful to have my Rotary scholarship because without it I

Gigantic Nautical Flea Market 2020

wouldn’t have been able to sign up for all of the classes I needed and also pay for my books and supplies to be successful in school.

PALM BEACH ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY LACIE MANN Hi! I'm Lacie Mann, and I am studying psychology at Palm Beach Atlantic University in sunny West Palm Beach. I recently finished research on group involvement and individualism and their impact on college students' anxiety. I obtained data from over 200 participants from various Floridian universities for my research and was able to find impressive significance in the results. This year, I am a resident assistant to a hall of 32 girls, mostly freshmen. I absolutely adore my position. I have been able to gain lots of experience for my desired career. I am working towards finishing my bachelor’s degree so I can pursue my master’s in counseling. JOY RUSSELL My name is Joy Russell and I am a sophomore at Palm Beach Atlantic University. I'm majoring in nursing and starting clinicals this spring. I've gotten all of my prerequisites out of the way so now the fun stuff can begin! I'm very excited to begin working in the field because the nursing program at my school is very vigorous, but I love it. I have also started serving on the kid’s team at my church in WellingtonNewsound. This is always a highlight of

my week — serving the kids in the 4-to-5 age group. It also gives me experience working with children, which is great because I'm interested in going into some form of pediatrics down the road. I am so thankful to the Rotary Club for giving me the opportunity to attend this wonderful school and study something I love by the gift of their scholarship. Their selfless dedication to furthering the education of kids in the Keys will always be greatly appreciated and admired. SARAH MAKEPEACE My name is Sarah Makepeace and I’m a sophomore at Palm Beach Atlantic University. I’m a molecular biology major, intending to pursue a graduate degree in nutrition. I’m a part of the honors program at PBA, and I’ve enjoyed exploring the diverse and unique service opportunities in West Palm Beach. I’m currently the vice president of a Christian women’s service organization. I’m so grateful for the Rotary scholarship because it helps me to continue attending a college where I am experiencing not just intellectual growth, but personal and spiritual growth as well, and where the faculty truly cares about the students.

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA CHRISTIAN IGNACIO I am currently studying at the University of South Florida. I have completed my first semester into my beginnings toward chemical engineering and doing STEM courses. Additionally, I joined

the school's Rotaract club and continue to do community service through them. With the Rotary scholarships that I had received, they have greatly helped me in not having to worry about most expenses. So far, I've yet to take out any loans, and in doing so, I am able to give school and my education the full attention it deserves. ANNA MAKENZIE WRIGHT My name is Anna Makenzie Wright and I am a secondyear student at the University of South Florida where I am studying public health, while focusing on global health and completing the requirements for medical schools. I am incredibly grateful for the Rotary Scholarship as it enables me to pursue opportunities like my upcoming Peace Corps Prep Internship in Colombia for Spring 2020.

NEW COLLEGE OF FLORIDA BEN VALEN My name is Ben Valen and I am a third-year student at New College of Florida, a small liberal arts honors college in Sarasota. I am majoring in psychology and art history, and I’m a student ambassador for the office of admissions. As of now, I am on track to pursue a doctorate in social psychology at either Carnegie Mellon or UC Berkeley after graduating in the spring of 2021. I am so grateful for the financial and personal support of the Upper Keys Rotary because I can focus solely on my education without holding a full-time job.

UNIVERSITY OF NORTH FLORIDA CHELSEA BASILIUS My name is Chelsea Basilius and I am a freshman at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville. At UNF, I am a communications major with a focus in public relations. I hope to one day work as a book publisher at a publishing company such as Penguin Random House or HarperCollins. These dreams, however, would not be made possible without the help of the Upper Keys Rotary Scholarship. By receiving this scholarship, I have been able to focus on my academics rather than the stresses of financing the many expenses that come with getting a degree.

SANTA FE COLLEGE SEAMUS DOUGHERTY Hi my name is Seamus Dougherty. In my selfie, I am in the Santa Fe College Fine Art Hall just about getting ready to audition for the Dance Theatre at Santa Fe (DTSF). I was able to afford all the dance attire and classes I needed in order to be a part of the dance company because of Rotary. Rotary has also been a big part in helping me pay my living expenses, and I would not be able to take advantage of the amazing opportunities at Santa Fe College if Rotary was not there to help me through my journey!

keysrotary.com

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