Key West Weekly 20-1224

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Santa’s been watching. (He’s NOT happy.)

December 24, 2020

TROPICAL HOLIDAYS KEY WEST BUSINESSES DECK THEIR HALLS | P. 12

NAUGHTY OR NICE?

TINY KIDS HAVE TALL ORDERS FOR THE BIG GUY | P. 8

CURFEW, CROWDS & COVID CODE OFFICERS SHARE NEW YEAR CONCERNS | P. 4

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KEY WEST 513 Fleming Street, Suite 11 (2nd floor accessible via elevator)

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TAVERNIER 93911 Overseas Hwy., Ste. 5 (2nd Floor) Tavernier, FL 33070

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

WINNER TRIPADVISOR 2020 TRAVELERS’ CHOICE AWARD We are honored to be ranked among the TOP 10% OF RESTAURANTS WORLDWIDE. A special thank you to our suppliers, our staff and most of all, each and every one of our valued customers. Thank you — Maura & Danny Hughes

OLD KEY WEST WITH A TWIST OF SOMETHING NEW 512 FRONT STREET | WWW.TWOFRIENDS.COM


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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

From our family to yours, wishing everyone happy holidays & a heathy new year

Kellie Alpert 305.923.1696

Jessica Blass 305.393.2518

Kathleen Burns 305.304.5007

Amanda Garcia 305.240.0704

Jenna Stauffer 260.433.2319

Karen Taporowski 305.304.1804

Tracey Gardiner 727.434.0540

Gina Kennedy PA 305.240.0707

Dominic Paolillo 212.767.9312

Stacy Stahl 305.731.9510

Matt Carlson 612.791.2345

Tony Davenport 561.262.4240

Vince Taporowski 305.394.3420

Marc Ulanowski

Debbie Cardenas 305.304.9434

Equestrian Sotheby’s

815.861.3359

Ellen Gvili 305.304.2933

Everett Smith 305.304.2651

Karen Verri 305.434.0148

Bob Cardenas Broker/Owner

305.304.8292

Russell Post Broker/Owner

Spending time outdoors does wonders for the soul, especially in the Florida Keys' beautiful tropics, transforming the ordinary into extraordinary works of art. If you are contemplating a fresh beginning this season, allow us to assist you. We believe in the art of uniting exceptional homes with exceptional lives.

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KEY WEST

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

NUMBER OF THE WEEK KEYS

NEWSPAPERS

5450 MacDonald Ave. No.5 Key West, FL 33040 Office: 305.453.6928 www.keysweekly.com

7

The number of days left before we say goodbye to what was one hell of a year. We exit 2020 with encouraging news, however, as COVID-19 vaccines are now being distributed with frontline workers and the vulnerable the first in line. Here’s to better and brighter days as we raise our glasses and soon ring in the new year.

ON THE COVER

From our families to yours, Merry Christmas! — The Key West Weekly Cover design by IRENE DE BRUIJN

Publisher

Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner

Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Editor

Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor

Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Account Executives

Stephanie Mitchell stephanie@keysweekly.com

Staff Writers

Sara Matthis sara@keysweekly.com Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Tiffany Duong tiffany@keysweekly.com

Production Manager

Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Circulation Manager

Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Design / Web Master

Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

Design / Pre-Press

Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

Classifieds

Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844

Se habla español

THE KEY WEST 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

Tuesday Noon

Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m.

MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

NEW YEAR CURFEW CONCERNS KEY WEST CODE OFFICERS UNARMED OFFICERS ASK CITY OFFICIALS FOR ADDED SUPPORT

S

ome of Key West’s Code Compliance officers have grave concerns about the city’s expectations with regard to their enforcement of the city’s 10 p.m. curfew on New Year’s Eve, according to some who contacted the Keys Weekly, but asked not to be identified. The officers said they met briefly on Dec. 16 with city officials to discuss their concerns and then sent a petition via email outlining their concerns and requests to their supervisor, Code Director Jim Young, Assistant City Manager Patti McLauchlin and director of human resources Samantha Farist. The petition seeks appropriate personal protective gear for COVID, including KN-95 masks and hand sanitizer, body armor or other protective uniforms, additional training such as pressure point control tactics that police use, reimbursement for COVID testing costs and hazard compensation for curfew duties they say will place them squarely in harm’s way of both COVID and defiant drunks on Duval Street. The code officers, who have written numerous citations to enforce the city’s mask mandate in recent weeks, have endured profanity and verbal harassment, spitting and at least one physical confrontation, Young told the city commissioners at a meeting in November.

But the code officers, who typically investigate illegal vacation rentals and unpermitted construction, don’t receive any of the same training as sworn police officers when it comes to de-escalating heated situations. Code officers don’t carry guns, and have not been allowed to carry pepper spray. Meanwhile, some of the people they’ve encountered downtown in recent weeks have been armed, the officers wrote in their letter to officials. Upon receiving the petition, Young told the Keys Weekly, “The city of Key West takes their concerns very seriously and will do everything to ensure that all employees have the necessary training and tools to perform the tasks they are assigned.”

McLauchlin also followed up on the letter, and met immediately with Young, City Manager Greg Veliz and Mayor Teri Johnston to go through each concern individually. “I think we’re all a little anxious about New Year’s Eve,” McLauchlin said. “And we are all very concerned with our employees’ safety, particularly as they’re out there on the front lines. We’ve spent thousands of dollars on additional masks for our personnel and I’ve made it mandatory that our code officers walk with a sworn police officer when downtown for the holidays. On New Year’s Eve, they’ll also be with a firefighter as well.” McLauchlin could not discuss the officers’ requests related to their pay, as that involves collective bargaining agreements with the officers’ union.


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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

New Year’s Eve Weekend at

h c a e R e h T

FROM

Key West’s

! E S I D A R A F P O TASTE Jerk Fish Tacos

Black Grouper, Wahoo, Sea Bass Baskets $18 Taco Tuesday Two Tacos $6 Happy Hour 3pm-7pm Daily

New Years Eve Dinner

December 31 | Four Marlins | 5:00pm-9:00pm

Chef-attended stationed buffet dinner. DJ on the Palm Lawn 6:00pm-9:00pm. $150 per person, includes food + premium liquor, wine + beer OR $225 including bubble lounge access. Reserve today at opentable.com

New Years Eve Bubble Lounge December 31 | Caribe Terrace | 8:00pm-10:00pm

Wahoo Basket

Fireworks at 9:45pm. Performance by the Spectrelles. $125 per person, includes bottomless select sparkling wines by the glass, sparkling cocktails and passed small bites. Bottle purchase available. Reservations required. Limited capacity. Reserve at opentable.com or call 305-293-6250.

Hangover Jazz Brunch

January 1 | Four Marlins | 11:00am-3:00pm

$65 per person, includes all you can eat small plates and bottomless mimosas and bloody marys.

Frozen Drinks

Scenic • Safe • Socially Distanced

EAT IN OR TAKE AWAY!

Reservations Recommended 1435 Simonton Street | Key West, FL reachresort.com | 305 293 6250

305.396.7680

633 Duval Street Key West, FL www.KeyWestFishAndChips.com

Follow us on Facebook @FourMarlins facebook.com/FourMarlins

Scan this code with your phone for menus

The City of Key West’s curfew requires all guests and residents to be back at their homes or hotel before 10:30pm. Social distancing must be maintained. Masks are required when not seated. Must be 21 or older to order and consume alcohol. Please consume responsibly.

Uashmama Paper Wine Tote

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1130 DUVAL STREET, KEY WEST Alex Monroe Daisy Earrings

Mary Francis Handbeaded Hansa Crossbody

Flexx Chappie Loafer

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6

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

HOME drivers Is More Important Than Ever

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RATE FOR OUR DRIVERS IS $20 AND UP based on experience. Must complete a drug test and background before hiring. Locally owned and operated family business for over 60 years.

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www.premierproducefl.com


COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

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BRIEFLY

Resident Ed Russo, assistant city manager Patti McLauchlin and Mayor Teri Johnston accept Russo’s donation of 20,000 disposable masks. ALYSON CREAN/City of Key West

RESIDENT ED RUSSO DONATES 20,000 DISPOSABLE MASKS TO CITY The City of Key West received a donation of 20,000 disposable masks from Ed Russo on behalf of RUSSKAP Holdings LLC. Local businesses can receive up to 100 free masks, and individuals can receive up to 10 free masks at City Hall, 1300 White Street. Just enter through the United Street parking lot side of the building. The city thanked Russo, saying the donation “epitomizes that we truly are in this together.” KEY WEST CHAMBER SEEKS EMPLOYEE PROMOTION INFORMATION The Key West Chamber of Commerce is producing a yearend publication that will feature a section called “Accolades,” which will allow members to recognize employees for promotions and milestone anniversaries. There is no charge for this. Those wishing to take part may send submissions in the format listed here, with the name of the employee, followed by their title/organization and a brief, one-sentence description. The chamber will try to include headshot photos, but cannot guarantee their placement. Submissions may include a high-res headshot with the individual’s name as the file name. Deadline for submissions is Thursday, Dec. 24. They should be sent to scott@keywestchamber.org. Examples: Theresa Axford was named Superintendent of Monroe County Schools. Frannie Herrin, Ed.D. was named executive director of teaching and learning for Monroe County Schools.

Danny and Maura Hughes accepted the 2020 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award on behalf of Two Friends Patio Restaurant. KAUFMAN SEEKS PUBLIC INPUT VIA ONLINE SURVEY District 2 City Commissioner Sam Kaufman is seeking public feedback for setting priorities and essential improvements along the North Roosevelt Boulevard Commercial District via a public survey. The survey has been sent to all businesses along the boulevard, but Kaufman wants to encourage the public at large to take a few minutes and weigh in on their opinions. To weigh in, go to cityofkeywest-fl.gov. KEYS ENERGY RECEIVES NATIONAL RECOGNITION Keys Energy Services recently received a national commendation from the American Public Power Association (APPA) for its support of post-Hurricane Delta electric power restoration efforts in Lafayette, Louisiana. KEYS sent six linemen to the Gulf Coast in early October to assist personnel from other regional utilities and contractors with power restoration in the aftermath of the storm. KEYS’ Hurricane Delta crew included: Michael Domenech, Herschel Major, Marlon Briones, Michael Hendricks, Miguel Gonzalez, and Andy Perez. KEYS participates in the APPA Mutual Aid Network, which coordinates with utilities and authorities during widespread power outages.

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Minister | Minis Rodrigue Aleandre Cell 305.296.3331 1700 Von Phister St, Key West

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:21 NKJV For those who wish to attend via teleconference dial 774.258.4149 or alternate # 716.293.9794 at the times listed above.


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HOLIDAYS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

THE LITTLEST ELVES

KEY WEST KIDS SHARE CHRISTMAS WISHES — AND HOW THEY STAY ON THE NICE LIST

W

e adults can talk for weeks about shopping lists and shipping deadlines. We can read about the global Christmas tree shortage, argue about a New Year curfew and yearn for the day we’re again free to move about the country. But none of that reflects the true spirit of Christmas; the plodding calendar countdown, the collection of baking ingredients that can only mean one thing and finally, the sleepless anticipation of the best morning of the year. To get some perspective and recognize who and what this week is all about, the Keys Weekly visited a few schools throughout the island chain and spoke with some of the littlest elves. Their feet couldn’t reach the floor, but their Christmas wish lists certainly did. Granted, most kids skipped over those pesky details about the baby Jesus and the joy of giving, but, really, can we blame them? Adults aren’t the only ones whose lives have been in constant upheaval since March. Let’s give them a break — and a very Merry Christmas.

Keys Weekly asked local students what was on their wish list and what they’ve done to get and remain on this year’s “Nice List.” In Key West, we met with six students from kindergarten, first and second grade. Here’s a bit of what they had to say: BRYCE SOLTER, FIRST GRADE “I’m always on the Nice List; I’m not worried about that. I help clean my room and I make my bed. “I want a computer, a tablet because I broke my old one, an iPhone 12, headphones, a pony — and I want to go all the way up to the North Pole to see where Santa lives. Did you know his reindeer are magic?”

IMANI LIGHTBOURN KUTNER, SECOND GRADE “I’m on the Nice List because I usually help my mom cook and clean before Christmas and I bake cakes and cookies all by myself. I’d give Santa all the cakes and cookies he wants.”

CAROLINE JACKSON, KINDERGARTEN “Weellll, my favorite reindeer is definitely Rudolph. And for Christmas, I want a real, live cat and cat pillows — one for the cat to lay on and a pillow for me that looks like a cat.”

KEION HODGES FERNANDEZ “I’m on the Nice List. I’ve stayed positive and at home I do all my chores, clean my room and make my bed. “I also figured out how Santa makes it to all the houses in the world in one night. It’s simple. He time travels. “We didn’t get to talk to Santa this year, but usually he comes to Home Depot and we can sit on his lap and they put out cookies for us. It’s fun, but we couldn’t do it this year because of COVID. I would have asked him for a trampoline, a clarinet, an art board and a computer. “I want to hide a camera in the house so I can see Santa on Christmas night, but my mom says I can’t. “Oh, and I want a bulldog to guard our house.”

ATHENA PUMAR, FIRST GRADE “On Christmas Eve or Christmas night, I don’t know which, I’m going someplace really special — BENIHANA! I can’t wait for that. “And I’m definitely on the Nice List this year because one time, my little sister, she hurt her finger, ya know? And I put a BandAid on it for her. Then I made her some hot cocoa. So yeah, I’m definitely on the Nice List. I’m getting a scooter, a Baby Doll Live and other stuff, but the one thing I’m ALWAYS wishing for is a real-live iPhone.”

HERNAN JOSEPH, KINDERGARTEN “I want a robot and a toy car. And I want TWO Christmas trees! If I get to talk to Santa, I hope he’s nice.”


BUSINESS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

JETBLUE RETURNS TO KEY WEST

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The Embraer 190 planes used by JetBlue feature two seats on either side of the aisle and private televisions on each seatback.

B

eginning Feb. 11, JetBlue Airways will add seasonal nonstop service from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) to Key West International Airport (EYW). Service from JFK to Key West is scheduled Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays and Mondays, with flights arriving in Key West at 1:22 p.m. and departing for JFK at 2:10 p.m. From Boston, service also is scheduled Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays and Mondays, with flights arriving in Key West at 12:14 p.m. and departing to BOS at 1:02 p.m. “This is indeed exciting news for Key West International Airport,” said Richard Strickland, the Florida Keys’ director of airports. “JetBlue is known for its comfortable, low-cost flights and excellent service.” JetBlue will serve the Key West market with Embraer 190 aircraft with 100-passenger seats, including 16 “even more

space” seats, and featuring two-by-two seating with ample leg room. The flights include complimentary, unlimited name-brand snacks and soft drinks, live programming on personal seatback televisions and free high-speed wireless internet, JetBlue’s announcement states. “Key West International Airport currently delivers visitors right to the doorstep of all the island has to offer,” the announcement continued. “The airport also serves as an easy gateway to the neighboring Lower Keys and Marathon, which offer their own array of special attractions and pictureperfect backdrops.” Plans call for the JetBlue service to operate through April 2021. More information is at jetblue.com or 800-538-2583, or visit Key West International Airport at eyw.com or call 305809-5200. — Contributed

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HOLIDAYS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

“WHEN THE STARS ALIGN...”

FOR THE FLORIDA KEYS & THE WORLD 1. Picture of Saturn was taken Aug. 29, 2020. JAY ELLIOTT/Contributed 2. Picture of Jupiter was taken on Apr. 8, 2017. JAY ELLIOTT/Contributed 3. Picture, taken on Dec. 12, 2020, shows Jupiter and Saturn about 1 degree apart. On Dec. 21, they will appear 1/10 of a degree apart. JAY ELLIOTT/Contributed

Heavenly Creator, Help us remember that the jerk who cut us off in traffic last night is a single mother who worked nine hours that day and is rushing home to cook dinner, help with homework, do the laundry and spend a few precious moments with her children. Help us to remember that the pierced, tattooed, disinterested young man who can’t make change correctly is a worried 19-year-old college student, balancing his apprehension over final exams with his fear of not getting his student loans for next semester. Remind us that the scary-looking bum, begging for money in the same spot every day (who really ought to get a job!) is a slave to addictions that we can only imagine in our worst nightmares. Help us to remember that the older couple walking annoyingly slowly through the store aisles and blocking our shopping progress is savoring this moment; knowing that (based on the doctor’s report she got back last week) this will be the last year that they go shopping together. Remind us each and every day that ... of all the gifts you give us, the greatest gift is love. And remind us that it is not enough to share that love with those we hold dear. Open our hearts not to just those who are close to us, but to all humanity. Let us be slow to judge — and quick to forgive, show patience, and promote peace, unity, empathy and love. — Author unknown

TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

W

e’ve all heard this saying, and the popular adage actually refers to the astrological idea of planetary alignment, the indication that good or bad things might happen. It is often associated with celestial positioning at someone’s birth. The most well-known example is the “Star of Bethlehem,” which, biblical legend has it, graced the night sky and guided the wise men across the desert in the days when Christianity began 20 centuries ago. So, have you been feeling a little more hope lately? Maybe it’s the news of the vaccine or maybe it’s something more? Perhaps, some good planetary juju? In the past few weeks, Jupiter and Saturn moved closer and closer to each other. On Dec. 21, just after sunset, the two planets aligned and appeared as one bright, beautiful star — the Christmas star. Physically, it actually was a planetary “great conjunction,” where Earth moved into a place where Jupiter and Saturn appeared to be aligned, said Keys astronomer Jay Elliott. Jupiter’s 12-year orbit and Saturn’s 29-year one overlapped and actually brought the planets closer together, from our vantage point on Earth. Despite visually coming together in the night sky, the two giant planets remain separated by a vast distance: five astronomical units (AU) — 92 million miles, or the distance of Earth to the sun, Elliott explained. The last time a great conjunction like this happened was in 1283, about 800 years ago, said NASA

solar system ambassador Elizabeth Moore. There was also one in 2000, but it was so close to the sun that we couldn’t see it, she said. “There’s another coming 80 years from now,” Moore told the Keys Weekly. “It’s not like it doesn’t happen, but it is a unique experience because it happened at the winter solstice, which gives us the longest night of the year, and because it (was) close to Christmas.” Many speculated this same conjunction was indeed the “Star of Bethlehem” of biblical fame, due to its brightness. Forbes even called it a “once-in-10-lifetimes” event. “That whole theory, being the possible cause of the ‘Christmas Star’ in the Bible, that’s unique,” Moore expanded. “It’s been a while since a conjunction happened near Christmas and it’s really cool.” Several conjunctions of various planets occurred “within 10 years of the chronological point now taken as the beginning of the Christian era,” the Encyclopaedia Britannica says, adding historical fuel to the speculative fire that Monday’s event might indeed have been special. On the solstice, the two planets appeared just one tenth of a degree apart – about the thickness of a dime held at arm’s length, according to NASA. Their visual proximity made them shine extra bright, just in time for Christmas. Following the conjunction, you’ll still be able to see the planets very close, moving farther from each other each day, Elliott said. So, whether or not you believe this was actually the “star” that graced the Bethlehem sky or just two giant balls of gas that happen to be swinging by to say hi to each other and us, one thing remains true: sometimes it’s nice to believe.


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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

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SEEN AROUND TOWN

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

D

espite the dark days of 2020, the Key West Chamber of Commerce wanted to brighten the island’s nighttime skies for the Christmas and Hanukkah holiday season. The chamber sponsored a holiday decorating contest that’s open to all Key West and Stock Island businesses, regardless of their chamber membership. The general public voted on the best decorations in various categories from Dec. 18-24. Winner of the Best Overall Business will receive a $2,000 cash prize. Other winners will be chosen in four categories and will be announced on Tuesday, Dec. 29. Visit keywestchamber.org for more information. Note: These photos show some of the entries in the Key West Chamber of Commerce holiday lights contest. The photos are not indicative of winners, which will be announced on Tuesday, Dec. 29. — Weekly staff report

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CHRISTMAS COMPETITION

KEY WEST BUSINESSES COMPETE IN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HOLIDAY CONTEST

1. Wicker Guesthouse on Duval Street, part of the Key West Hospitality Inns collection, features a collection of candy canes, lights and gingerbread men. CONTRIBUTED 2. Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate on White Street turned its towering palm trees into tropical tannenbaums. 3. Grand Vin serves up plenty of holiday ‘spirit’ on Duval Street. 4. First State Bank’s Roosevelt Boulevard branch is a beacon of coastal Christmas decorations.

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4

3

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5. Key West’s Hard Rock Cafe on Duval Street is rocking around the Christmas tree, with candy canes and garland also greeting guests.


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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

4pm-9pm

New Year's Eve Dinner Your last meal of 2020 should be the best!

Diver Scallops with a White Truffle Sauce Lobster Thermidor Rib-Eye with Black Truffle Shavings & Foie Gras Osso Bucco Limited regular menu also available

RESERVATIONS 305.294.0230 WWW.CAFESOLE.COM • 1029 SOUTHARD ST OUTDOOR SEATING AVAILABLE NOT AVAILABLE WITH ANY DISCOUNTS

6th Annual

Jan. 22-24 2021 Hawks Cay Resort- Duck Key

Islandboatshow.com

Fri. 1-5 pm Sat. 9-5 pm Sun. 9-3 pm

New Year' s Eve NEW YEAR’S EVE BALLROOM DINNER FIREWORKS VIEWING & CHAMPAGNE LOUNGE

DECEMBER 31 | FLAGLER BALLROOM | 6:00PM-10:00PM Cocktail Reception & Dinner: 6pm – 9pm. Fireworks Viewing & Champagne Lounge: 9pm – 10pm. Fireworks at 9:45pm. $350/person. Reservations required — exclusive seating. Contact Jennifer Robino at Jennifer.Robino@waldorfastoria.com or 305.296.3535 ext. 7865.

NEW YEAR’S AT SUN-SUN

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

FIREWORKS VIEWING CELEBRATION WITH LIVE MUSIC BY HAPPY DOG

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

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

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IN THEIR OWN WORDS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

CURING A SINKING FEELING Police chief saves the day – and pictures MIKE HOWIE

mike@keysweekly.com

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he boat parade was almost over. We had a great spot, at the end of the Seventh Street canal on Key Colony Beach. The boats, many with intricate displays that must have taken days to set up, floated right past us, turning from front view to side (and a couple of them doing a 360) before moving back up the canal. I was starting to get into the holiday spirit. And all I’d had to drink was one nonalcoholic beer. I was mostly using my camera, but I wanted to take a few pictures with my phone as well. So I pulled the phone from its pocket in the camera bag, took a few shots and set it in my lap, taking a few more with my camera. At the end of the parade, I leaned over and put the camera back in the bag. Then, thinking we might stop for one actual drink before the traffic cleared, I stood up. I heard the “plunk” first, and then watched, horrified, as the still-lighted screen of my phone sank to the bottom of the canal. People who know me well will tell you that I am rarely more than an arm’s length from my phone. I don’t really use it for work, but I use it for everything else: email, texts with my family and friends, Facebook, Instagram, some games when I have a few minutes to kill. That may not convey to you the anguish I felt in the moment. I pride myself on keeping my phone safe. A case is the first accessory I get for a new phone. I often choose shirts to wear because they have a pocket for the phone. I’m probably a little cocky about how careful I am with it. Still, I wasn’t worried about the phone. I wasn’t happy about it – at all – but I have a backup. I could get a new SIM card from my provider and be back up and running in a few days. But this phone had a separate storage card where all my photos were. Lots of photos. That’s the other thing I use my phone for. I take pictures on my daily walks. My family. My friends. Sunsets from a variety of locations, in the Keys and elsewhere. I had just stopped last week at Anne’s Beach and took some photos from a nice little solitary stroll there. All I could think about on the drive home from the boat parade were those photos. And the recent prompts from Amazon Prime to use its free backup service. Which I had ignored.

Key Colony Beach Police Chief Kris DiGiovanni. CONTRIBUTED

Julie Howie celebrates her 89th birthday last August. MIKE HOWIE/Keys Weekly

I didn’t sleep well that night. At midday the next day, I drove back to the city parking lot by the canal. Walked over and looked down and hey, in several feet of reasonably clear water, I saw the black outline of what I knew was my phone. I love to look at the water, but I don’t boat, don’t fish and don’t swim. So the phone might as well have been on the bottom of the ocean. But I walked across the parking lot to the police department’s temporary building. A door opened, and a man in uniform said, “Can I help you?”

“I don’t know if anyone can,” I said, and explained my predicament. I mentioned that there were pictures of my mother on the phone. And that’s when a remarkable thing happened. Kris DiGiovanni, the chief of police who had opened the door, said he had an idea. We walked behind the post office, and I pointed down in the water. He saw it instantly, and walked to the police boat poised at the dock. He grabbed a pole, a shorthandled net, and some tape. He secured the net to the pole and knelt on the concrete, dipping the net into the water. I watched, transfixed. He almost had it on the very first try, but the phone flipped away, making the water murky for a moment. DiGiovanni then lay straight out on the concrete and stretched again, this time bringing the net out of the water – with the phone nestled inside. I think I thanked him, but I was just so ecstatic I couldn’t be sure. When I emailed DiGiovanni later that day to thank him again, he tried to redirect the praise: “I would like to think that any of the Key Colony Beach police officers would have done the same. … I don’t expect any recognition in something that I would do for everyone in this city.” “Good luck with your phone,” he said. “I hope you are able to save the photos of your mother.” The phone is toast. After letting it dry out with some desiccant for three days, nothing happened when I plugged it in. But here’s the surprise: I was able to get the microSD card and the SIM card out. I left them on a paper towel on the counter, where they stayed overnight. The next morning, I plugged the SIM card into my backup phone. “No service,” it said. Sigh. Let’s try the universal trick: turn it off and on again. Holy cow, the backup phone works with a SIM card that spent 16 hours in salt water. And if that works, hey, maybe the storage card… Plugged that into an adapter and holy cow times two: the pictures are all there. So, to Chief DiGiovanni, let me say it again: thanks very much. Got a little holiday spirit after all. Mike Howie is the copy editor of the Keys Weekly.

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16

COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

TIMING IS EVERYTHING

KEY WEST HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS REACT TO AFTER-THE-FACT EXAMS Do you think that taking the test about 8 months after you have moved on from the course due to COVIS-19 is fair?

FOLLOWING FAMOUS FOOTSTEPS

HISTORICAL SOCIETY NAMES WINNERS OF TENNESSEE WILLIAMS-INSPIRED WRITING CONTEST

The chart above details 26 students’ reactions to taking end-of-course exams eight months after the class ended. ELLA HALL/Key West High School

ELLA HALL www.keysweekly.com

T

he first week of December was exam week for several Key West High School students, but COVID affected even this traditional high school rite of passage. Due to delays, closures and online learning, the end-ofcourse exams that some classes require were administered a full eight months after the class was taught. Students got a reprieve from the exams during the last school year while the COVID pandemic unfolded. But the Florida Department of Education announced in August that the EOC exams would be given in the 2020-21 school year. Students’ performance on the EOC exams help determine a school’s letter grade that’s assigned by the state education department. While the classes were taught last year, the EOC exams weren’t given until Dec. 1 through Dec. 9, prompting complaints and concerns from several students. “Many students, myself included, had thrown away their studying materials for the EOCs as soon as they heard that the governor bypassed them all last year,” said Madison Fernandez, a sophomore at Key West High School. Fernandez was far from alone in feeling unprepared for the EOC exams. On Dec. 9, an online survey asked KWHS students how they felt about the exams and allowed them to respond anonymously. Of the 26 students who responded, 88.5% said that taking the EOCs eight months after the class ended was not a fair measure. Some students who took Biology 1 last year expected to take the take and pass the EOC exam and thus check off one of the requirements for the Scholar Diploma at KWHS. But things didn’t always go as planned

“It is outright wrong to give a test after a long break from the subject, especially when we don’t even have our biology teacher anymore,” one student responded. “The test should have been waived from the Scholar Diploma requirements.” Another 73.1% of the 26 students agreed, saying the EOC exams should have been waived. Adding to the series of unfortunate events, Fernandez said, was that the testing environment was not appropriate for the EOCs. There was an overflow number of students in each room, which caused a lot of chatter, confusion and, most importantly, wasted time, she said, but added that the COVID precautions were executed perfectly, with students positioned 6 feet from each other. According to the survey, 53.8% of the students said they felt uncertain about the test, while 42.3% feared they may not have passed. “Although I studied the material, I walked into the exam room with very low expectations. I must’ve looked like a deer in headlights after reading the first few questions,” said Fernandez. For many students, college acceptance is a top priority, and passing the EOC test is critical. If you pass, then sure, the test was worth it, but what does that mean for those who didn’t pass? Will they blame it on the school, the state education department or on COVID-19? Students don’t know what will happen next. Will the school district throw another curveball at the students? Will COVID-19 further impact our academic future? Only time will tell, but from now on, perhaps officials should consider students’ perspectives before enacting certain changes. (Reprinted with permission from the Key West High School newspaper, “The Snapper.”)

Tennessee Williams is seen with one of his dogs at his Key West home, 1431 Duncan St. The playwright lived on the island for more than 30 years, writing many of his most celebrated works from the Duncan Street home. MONROE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARIES COLLECTION/Contributed

E

ach year, the Key West Art & Historical Society hosts a Tennessee Williams Birthday Celebration that includes a series of programs, contests and fundraisers celebrating the renowned American playwright who lived, wrote — and drank — in Key West for 34 years. The society this week announced the winners of the 2020 Birthday Celebration’s poetry and short story contests. Nevin Milan won first place in the poetry contest for “A Rose Without Thorns,” while second place went to Rebecca Hertz for “Complete Citizen Cora.” In the short story component of the contest, Edward M. Cohen was awarded first place for “Peroxide Blonde,”

while second place went to Allana Ensley for “Dear Brother.” The society will host a series of virtual events during the 2021 Tennessee Williams Birthday Celebration that will mark the playwright’s 110th birthday. Details for next year’s celebration will be forthcoming, with contests and programming scheduled to take place Jan. 18 through March 31. More information is available from Kassandra Collett at 305-2956616 ext. 114 or kcollett@kwahs. org, or at WWW.KWAHS.ORG. The events are sponsored in part by the Tennessee Williams Museum and the Monroe County Tourist Development Council. — Contributed


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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

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


18

COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

FROM ELECTIONS TO EDUCATION

RASCHEIN JOINS MONROE COUNTY EDUCATION FOUNDATION BOARD

T

he Monroe County Education Foundation (MCEF) has added Holly Raschein, former state representative for the Florida Keys, to its board of directors. “We are very excited to welcome Holly to our foundation board,” said board president Bryan Green. During her eightyear tenure in the State House, Raschein served on and led several key committees. She also ardently supported education and the Florida non-profit education foundations that support teachers, students, and provide programs such as Take Stock in Children. With a son in the Monroe County public school system, Raschein is “continually impressed by the professionalism, dedication, and passion of our amazing teachers and administrators. And I am thrilled to join the MCEF board and offer my support of the foundation’s mission and its flagship program, Take Stock in Children.” Raschein has a bachelor’s degree from Florida State University and a master’s degree from Florida International University. After Hurricane Irma,

Raschein served as project coordinator for both Mariners Hospital and Fishermen’s Community Hospital where she helped lead the coordination of a custom-made modular hospital. She also assisted with the building of the new, state-of-the-art hospital facility in Marathon that will provide life-saving healthcare services to the Middle and Lower Keys. Take Stock in Children is a mentoring program in Monroe County that provides scholarship opportunities to eligible middle and high school students, is the flagship program of the foundation. “For 20 years, Take Stock in Children has changed lives in Monroe County with weekly mentoring, college and career readiness initiatives, and pathways to post-secondary degrees or industry certifications,” said Chuck Licis-Masson, MCEF executive director and Take Stock program coordinator. Established in 1996, the foundation is a Florida not-forprofit organization dedicated to enhancing and improving the educational experiences of students within Monroe County. The foundation also provides leadership development opportunities and international travel experiences for qualified Monroe County students. Nearly 800 students from Monroe County have received Take Stock scholarships since the program was established. Over 90% of TSIC Monroe graduates earn a college degree or career certificate, which is four times the national average. For more information or to contribute to Take Stock in Children, visit monroecountyedfound.org. — Contributed

DINE OUT FOR GOOD

KEY WEST WOMAN’S CLUB LAUNCHES RESTAURANT FUNDRAISER

The Hellings House on Duval Street is the long-time home of the Key West Woman’s Club. CONTRIBUTED

T

he Key West Woman’s Club’s 15th annual Restaurant and Theater Tour Card for 2020-21 is now available. Despite the hardships imposed on service industries by the COVID-19 pandemic, 34 area restaurants have opted to participate in this year’s program. The card offers buy one, get one entrée deals at restaurants ranging from fine dining to casual waterfront eateries, giving diners the opportunity to visit old favorites and explore new ones, along with discounted tickets for theater companies including the Red Barn Theatre, Waterfront Playhouse, Fringe Theater, the Key West Theater and The Studios of Key West. The cards, which are effective until Sept. 30, 2021, are available at the Custom House Museum, 281 Front St.; Fort East Martello Museum, 3501 S. Roosevelt Blvd.; Lady Nails, 2720 N. Roosevelt Blvd.; Key West Mad Hatter, 253 Front St.;

Curry Mansion Inn, 511 Caroline St.; Guild Hall Gallery, 614 Duval St.; and Amri Key West, 1204 Simonton St. Among the charities benefitting are the Bahama Village Music Program, Cooking with Love, Domestic Abuse Shelter, Friends of the Library, Keys 2 Swim, Literary Volunteers - Monroe County Inc., MARC House, Silver Liners, Special Olympics Monroe County and Wesley House Family Services. Key West Woman’s Club, a volunteer service organization established in 1915, helps Key West and Monroe County non-profits with ongoing contributions from the sales of the Restaurant Card and other fundraising activities. Since 1940 the group has made its home in the historic Hellings House at 319 Duval St. More information is available from Susan Mitchell, 740-274-9091, or at the Key West Woman’s Club’s Facebook page. — Contributed


19

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

TO LEARN ABOUT THIS INCREDIBLE VOLUNTEER AND HOW YOU CAN HELP THE KEYS, VISIT CFFK.ORG

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THE STUDIOS OF KEY WEST OUR GALLERIES ARE OPEN! STOP IN AND SAY HELLO

(capacity limited, COVID precautions taken)

ON VIEW DEC 3-31

ART.

WHEREVER YOU ARE. WINTER MEMBERS SHOW

KNOW YOUR WATER

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

PRESERVE PROTECT DELIVER

WHERE YOUR WATER COMES FROM

GALLERY HOURS TUES-SAT, 12-4PM If being mostly house-

bound over the last year has taught us anything, it’s been new ways of connecting. We’ve explored the world virtually, scheduled screen chats with loved ones, and opened our eyes to old injustices and hidden treasures that were around us all along. Our ties to our neighbors – both across the street and across the globe – have never felt more real, and the physical places where we find ourselves seem to matter more than ever, and not at all. For our winter members’ exhibition, we invited our members to create art wherever they were – whether it was the view from a window, or from their mind’s eye.

The Biscayne Aquifer, the primary source water for the Florida Keys, is located in a protected pine rockland near Everglades National Park. The remarkably high-quality source water meets and surpasses all regulatory standards prior to treatment.

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FKAA.COM

305.296.2454


COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

21

SARA MATTHIS

sara@keysweekly.com

1

2

3

CAPTAIN CARDBOARD!

Marina sponsors holiday contest

5 4

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OVID-19 wrecked Marathon Marina Resort’s normal holiday festivities — Santa cruising the docks with hot chocolate — like cardboard left out in the rain. (More on that later.) So the resort’s general manager Susan Pritchard dreamed up a contest for school age children: make a boat out of cardboard. “We’ll announce the winners on our Facebook page,” she said. The stakes are high — the winners will receive a Kindle Fire tablet. “The rules were simple. It had to be made out of cardboard, and it had to be decorated for the holidays. If nothing else, it’s a way for softies like us to get a tablet in the hands of a child.” Yeah, us too. We love our readers. Marathon Marina has 111 slips, and some of the contestants are liveaboards there right now. It was recently honored at The Docks Expo 2020 and will be featured in the Marina Dock Age magazine as the 2020 U.S. Small Marina of the Year. Here are the contenders: 1. This entry is a bit of a mystery, believed to originate somewhere in the Frozen north. Mom of Athena Beasley said she’s looking at their version of “Santa’s Candy Lane.” CONTRIBUTED 2. Look closely, folks. This is a picture of a boat in a boat. Lyla and Macy, the dog, named their vessel “Holiday.” CONTRIBUTED 3. Warren and Leona made a twodimensional pirate ship in a festive red. Check out the details on the mast; bling and bandannas makes everything better. CONTRIBUTED

6

7

4. This is a children’s contest. (Ahem, R.D. Goodman.) Still River was all smiles piloting this craft built around her Power Wheel complete with spinning propellers. Dad and buddies put a lot of effort into this creation and are to be commended. CONTRIBUTED 5. Liam is a liveaboard at Marathon Marina Resort. He was off to a very good start building this on the dock when a squall popped up. Before rain could ruin the project, mom shot these photos. CONTRIBUTED 6. Extra props to Lennox for the fabulous decoration of her vessel. The 11-year-old and her family are stopping in Boot Key Harbor for a while aboard their full-size vessel Aeolus. CONTRIBUTED 7. Haley and her family are perennial visitors of Marathon Marina’s RV park. Her colorful creation even has a T-top. Very good, Haley. Very good. CONTRIBUTED


22

HOLIDAYS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020 MANDY MILES

F

or 2020, the Keys Weekly staff launched an ambitious project — a contest to nominate our favorite locals who personify, in real life, famous characters from treasured holiday movies. We were looking for local versions of the Grinch, Clark Griswold, Kevin McCallister, etc. And y’all — and by y’all we mean our readers — interpreted and executed it in true Keys fashion — that is to say in your own way entirely. And that’s just fine with us.

mandy@keysweekly.com

KEY WEST GOES HOLLYWOOD

READERS NOMINATE LOCAL CLARK GRISWOLD & BUDDY THE ELF

Dan Reynen of WeBeFit, 1277 First St., adds to his Christmas display each year, hand making every decoration so no one can buy duplicates. Reynen also decks out the building for Valentine’s Day, Easter, Fourth of July and other holidays. MARCUS VARNER/Contributed

DAN REYNEN AKA CLARK GRISWOLD Chevy Chase’s unforgettable character from “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” is the patriarch of the family who plans to have a great oldfashioned family Christmas with a house filled with relatives. He’s alo the homeowner who obsesses over his exterior Christmas display, which includes 25,000 twinkling lights — and an electric meter that’s spinning madly. Marcus Varner nominated Dan Reynen of WeBeFit for this year’s inaugural Southernmost Clark Griswold. “Not content with typical holiday decorations, Dan works with his staff to build original concepts. This year he converted a 12-foot Halloween skeleton into a 12-foot snowperson. If you look at the decorations, you’ll see unique items like the red accent bars at the top, the layercake bell decorations, men and women nutcrackers, twinkling stars and green wrapped rope light wreaths,” Varner said.

“Even during a pandemic, Dan feels it’s important to create “visions of hope” that everyone can enjoy.” The WeBeFit building at 1277 First St. houses the fitness studio on the first floor and Reynen’s and Marcus Varner’s home above it. “I decorate for every holiday,” said Reynen, adding that the displays started as a simple marketing effort for the business, but eventually took on a life of their own. “We build on the Christmas display each year. All the decorations are handmade by us, because I don’t want to have anything that someone can buy someplace else.” The pair spends months cutting foam decorations, gluing lights and bending metal into snowmen, snowflakes and other shapes. “We actually built a separate shed on our property just to store the holiday decorations,” Reynen said, laughing proudly at the Clark Griswold nomination.

Like Will Ferrell in ‘Elf,’ Virginia Wark is taller than one would expect an elf to be, but her enthusiasm for all things colorful and costumed certainly fits the bill. VIRGINIA WARK/Contributed

Eileen Kelly was one of Key West’s Buddy the Elf nominees. She created a neighborhood tree made from scrap wood salvaged after Hurricane Irma. GRAFF KELLY/Contributed

VIRGINIA WARK AND EILEEN KELLY SHARE BUDDY THE ELF TITLE Kendall Cameron nominated Virginia Wark as Key West’s own Buddy the Elf, while Graff Kelly recommended Eileen Kelly for the title character played by Will Ferrell in the movie “Elf.” “I live across the street from Virginia Wark, who decorates colorfully, is often costumed, is definitely tall and silly, she likes everyone, and the Christmas Conch Train route includes our block, the 1700 block of United Street, so Virginia can run outside and yell Merry Christmas while ringing sleigh bells,” Cameron wrote in her nomination. In nominating Eileen Kelly as Buddy the Elf, Graff Kelly wrote, “After Hurricane Irma, Eileen found all the scrap wood in the streets and surrounding area,

collected it and built a huge hurricane Christmas tree for our neighborhood. It was even decorated with blue tarp and caution tape. Each year since then, she has redesigned and painted the tree for everyone to enjoy at the corner of 15th Street and Pearl Avenue just off Flagler. “This year she has stepped up her elfish game and designed the Christmas tree to be a ‘Charity Christmas tree.’ She has put out wooden ornaments for everyone in the neighborhood to paint, personalize and hang. Then, with each ornament that’s placed on the tree she collects donations for the Florida Keys SPCA.


23

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

THANK YOU KEY WEST FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT OF MARC THIS HOLIDAY SEASON! WE COULD NOT DO WHAT WE DO WITHOUT YOU. LOOKING FORWARD TO A HEALTHY AND PROSPEROUS 2021.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

School Readiness and VPK Early Care and Education Partners in Monroe County • MM 1 - Gonzalez Family Day Care Home 301 WHITE ST. APT. 1C KEY WEST, FL 33040 • 305-896-1636X

• MM 30.2 - Big Pine Academy Early Learning Center 30070 POND LANE, BIG PINE KEY, FL 33043 • 305-872-2432

• MM 1 -The Learning Center of Key West, INC 201 TRUMAN AVE. KEY WEST, FL 33040 • 305-292-0440

• MM 48.6 - Stanley Switlik Elementary 3400 OVERSEAS HWY, MARATHON, FL 33050 • 305-289-2490

• MM 1.1 -Boys and Girls Clubs of the Keys Area, Inc. 1316 REYNOLDS ST. KEY WEST, FL 33040 • 305-296-2258

• MM 49.2 - Grace Jones Community Center, Inc. 230 41st ST. GULF, MARATHON, FL 33050 • 305-743-6064

• MM 1.2 - Inez Martin Child Care Center 1100 VARELA, KEY WEST, FL 33040 • 305-809-5055

• MM 49.4 - Kreative Kids Christian Academy 4711 OVERSEAS HWY, MARATHON, FL 33050 • 305-743-7165

• MM 1.3 - Montessori Children’s School Of Key West 1221 VARELA, KEY WEST, FL 33040 • 305-294-5302

• MM 51 - Marathon Lutheran 325 122ND ST, MARATHON, FL 33050 • 305-735-4762

• MM 1.6 - Horace O’Bryant Elementary 1105 LEON, KEY WEST, FL 33040 • 305-296-5628

• MM 51 - Community Cooperative Preschool Inc. 550 122ND ST. OCEAN, MARATHON, FL 33050 • 305-735-4762

• MM 2 - Barbara Alvarez Family Day Care Home x 2689 N. ROOSEVELY BLVD. #4 KEY WEST, FL 33040 • 305-731-9476

• MM 82.4 - Islamorada Child Care 82681 OVERSEAS HWY, ISLAMORADA, FL 33036 • 305-910-7228

• MM 2 - Sunbeam Christian School 1311 5th ST. KEY WEST, FL 33040 • 305-294-6018 x325 • MM 2.5 - Maria Lamadrid Family Day Care Home 1524 5TH ST. KEY WEST, FL 33040 • 305-294-6311

• MM 86.6 - Treasure Village Montessori Charter 86731 OVERSEAS HWY, ISLAMORADA, FL 33036 • 305-852-3482

• MM 2.5 - Moreno Family Day Care Home 1659 REORDAN CT. APT. 4 KEY WEST, FL 33040 • 305-296-3247

• MM 87.6 - St. James Children’s Center 87500 OVERSEAS HWY, ISLAMORADA, FL 33036 • 305-852-2161

• MM 2.5 - Key West Preschool Cooperative, Inc. 2610 FLAGLER AVE. KEY WEST, FL 33040 • 305-296-4749

• MM 89 - Plantation School 100 LAKE ROAD, TAVENIER, FL 33070 • 305-853-3281

• MM 2.7 - Grace Lutheran School 2713 FLAGLER AVE. KEY WEST, FL 33040 • 305-296-8262

• MM 92.9 - Burton Memorial Child Development Center 93001 OVERSEAS HWY, TAVERNIER, FL 33070 • 305-852-0250

• MM 3.2 - Poinciana Elementary School 1407 KENNEDY DR. KEY WEST, FL 33040 • 305-293-1630

• MM 93.2 - Dolphin Montessori Children’s Inc., South 735 GROUPER LANE, KEY LARGO, FL 33037 • 305-453-3787

• MM 3.8 - NAS Child Development Center V-187 ARTHUR SAWYER RD. KEY WEST, FL 33040 • 305-293-4498

• MM 98.8 - First Baptist Church, Jack Hill Child Care 99001 OVERSEAS HWY, KEY LARGO, FL 33037 • 305-451-2125

• MM 3.8 - NAS Key West Youth Center V-187 ARTHUR SAWYER RD. KEY WEST, FL 33040 • 305-293-2098

• MM 99.8 - Upper Keys YMCA 550 ST CROIX PLACE, KEY LARGO, FL 33037 • 305-453-3422

• MM 5 - Gerald Adams Elementary 5855 COLLEGE RD. KEY WEST, FL 33040 • 305-293-1609

• MM 103 - Montessori Academy of the Upper Keys 5 TRANSYLVANIA AVE., KEY LARGO, FL 33037 • 305-451-7077

• MM 5.1 - Lighthouse Christian Academy, Inc. 5580 MACDONALD AVE. KEY WEST, FL 33040 • 305-292-5582

• MM 104.8 - Key Largo School 104801 OVERSEAS HWY, KEY LARGO, FL 33037 • 305-453-1255

• MM 5.2 - Temple Christan Preschool 5727 2ND AVE. KEY WEST, FL 33040 • 305-216-5556 • MM 19.3 - Sugarloaf Elementary 255 CRANE BLVD., SUGARLOAF KEY, FL 33042 • 305-745-3282 • MM 22.9 - Banana Cabanna 22673 PIECES OF EIGHT RD., CUDJOE KEY, FL 33042 • 305-745-1400

• MM 105 - Dolphin Montessori 104960 OVERSEAS HWY, KEY LARGO, FL 33037 • 305-852-2225 • MM 105.5 - St. Justin’s Martyr Preschool 105500 OVERSEAS HWY, KEY LARGO, FL 33037 • 305-451-6415

Monroe County: 1111 12th St., Suite 206, Key West 305-296-5557 • ELCMDM.ORG

office of

Learn Early. Learn for Life.

Early Education. Lifelong Success.


26

GIFT GUIDE

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

FOR THE

SHOPPERS

This is it folks, the last of the Keys Weekly gift guides to help our readers make the holidays simple and bright. We’re supporting local, small businesses and hope everyone else will too. The gifts on this page are easily acquired, wrapped and presented. Merry Christmas to all! ODDS & ENDS Marathon tends to think of D’Asign Source as the place to get “big” stuff — like chairs and couches. But it has a huge assortment of small items that are elegant and coastal. Pick up an elaborate King Neptune doll, a candle or a glittering dolphin ornament. D’ASIGN SOURCE, Marathon, prices vary.

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JEWELRY Amanda Jorgensen has a display at Shady Palm Art Gallery that features pottery and wood cut art. These tiny turtle earrings caught our eye, but she also has some humorous Christmas ornaments, too. SHADY PALM ART GALLERY, Marathon, $13

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MELAMINE SERVEWARE ACCENT PLATES Whether at a house at the beach or in town, this Sea Life design brings home the feel of the ocean. The set of four melamine serveware accent plates can be used for bread, salad, dessert, or even displayed on a wall. SHELL WORLD, Key Largo. $36.99 BREAK OUT THE BUBBLY You’ll be a welcome addition to any holiday gathering when you’re carrying a bottle of Veuve Clicquot. The brand’s Yellow Label is the signature of Veuve Clicquot’s quality and style, recreated every year thanks to its priceless collection of reserve wines. Its brilliant yellow label reflects the champagne’s bright personality and impeccable winemaking credentials. FAUSTO’S, Key West. Approximately $50.

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27

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

PARADE YOUR OWN PAWS RAISE DONATIONS FOR THE FKSPCA ANIMALS

DECEMBER 1-31 THROUGH OUR

VIRTUAL PET WALK

BY CREATING YOUR OWN FUNDRAISING PAGE!

Call 305-743-7111 Ext 205 Today!

www.keysahec.com

SCAN CODE TO GO TO THE SITE

Serving Ipswich Whole Bellied Clams & Maine Lobster Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives.

(305) 294-0102 11:30 AM – 10 PM 629 Duval St, Key West When you’re on Long Island be sure to visit our new location in Wantagh. Call ahead for Daily Specials 516-900-1400.

WWW.JUSTGIVING.COM/CAMPAIGN/ PARADEYOUROWNPAWS SHARE YOUR PAGE ONLINE TO RAISE DONATIONS AND WALK YOUR PET SAFELY AND SOCIALLY DISTANTLY TO BENEFIT THE ANIMALS OF THE FKSPCA!

PRIZES AWARED TO ALL FUNDRAISERS WHO RAISE $100 OR MORE! WITH SPECIAL AWARDS FOR THE ROYAL COURT, KING AND QUEEN.

FOR QUESTIONS CONTACT TIFFANY AT TIFFANY@FKSPCA.ORG OR 305.294.4857


28

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

PRIVACY & LUXURY IN OLD TOWN KEY WEST

281 TRUMBO RD 205 KEY WEST STEAMPLANT

NANCY SWIFT Location 3 Real Estate of Key West, Inc. 201 Front Street, Suite 310, Key West

CPA, Realtor

305.849.2455

Luxury Steamplant Condo in Old Town Key West. Upscale safe haven with it's own private elevator. Rare opportunity to own a 3 BR 3.5 BA luxury residence and 2 deeded parking spaces in the unique Key West Steamplant Condominiums. The Unit's large personal elevator, located next to your parking, will take you from the gated parking garage to all living areas; and on up to your expansive rooftop terrace with dipping pool. Enjoy soaring 14 ft ceilings and delightful natural light from grand windows and skylights. Property, pool and elevator maintenance; security; building generator, gym with fitness equipment are all included. One of only 19 units splendidly located next to the Historic Key West Seaport. The ultimate in privacy and luxury.

$2,345,000 | 3 BR | 4 BA | 3,020 SF


KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

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30

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

It’s time to get back to the basics of good recycling 1

2

Empty bottles, cans, paper and cardboard.

LIC# CCC1329991

LIC# CGC032862

THANK YOU KEY WEST!

3 Keep food and liquid out.

VOTED BEST CONTRACTOR 5 YEARS IN A ROW!

Recyclables go directly into the cart.

NEED A BAGGSTER?

Purchase one from your local hardware stores, then call the 800 number to set up a pickup. ROLLOFF CONTAINERS and PORTABLE TOILETS available. Call us at 305.296.8297.

Second Annual

MIKE GARCIA • 305-304-4188 CONCHROOFING@GMAIL.COM WWW.CONCHCONSTRUCTIONANDROOFING.COM

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM OUR FAMILIES TO YOURS! WARMLY, THE TEAM AT DR. GUZMAN’S OFFICE

Located at 2758 N. Roosevelt Blvd. (in the Overseas Market) • Key West, FL 33040 Phone 305.294.9914 • Fax 305.295.9691 • doc@docguzman.com • www.docguzman.com


COOL STUFF

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

Mainstreaming

31

A look at what they're doing on the mainland

NOW TRENDING

The best of 2020; it wasn’t all crap.

10. Itching, loss of smell and taste, loss of appetite, vertigo, tightening of the extremities, tingling in the loins, loss of balance or coordination, slurred speech, chronic diarrhea, temporary blindness, profuse sweating, heart palpitations, patterned baldness, dry mouth and bedwetting. 9. A sudden disinterest in trivial social media debates about protective masks, presidential election recounts, mayoral mandates and conspiracy theories about the Utah monolith. 8. Hemorrhoids the size of grapefruits.

WORST REPORTED SIDE EFFECTS OF THE COVID VACCINE

LISTEN | Phoebe Bridgers NPR listeners picked Phoebe Bridgers’ “The Punisher” as the best album of the year. If sad songs are your thing, this is your girl. Bridgers is an American indie singer and songwriter from Los Angeles. Give it a listen if you still have a few tears to leak for 2020.

7. Erections that last more than three hours. (If this happens, call your doctor immediately — right after you call all your buddies).

READ | The Office “The Untold Story of the Greatest Sitcom of the 2000s,” by Andy Greene, is an indepth look at the popular television show with lots of insider info and cast interviews. It ranks first in comedy, according to vulture. com. The bit about the “Fire Drill” episode that aired after the 2009 Super Bowl will have you googling YouTube for another giggle.

6. An “unusual” urge for sex, weed and gambling. 5. Strange dreams that include Machine Gun Kelly, your mom and that chick from the AT&T commercials. 4. Temporary memory loss that coincides with holidays, anniversaries and birthdays. 3. Wetting of the pants and forgetting who you are for an hour every time Catherine revs up the microwave. 2. Hairy palms. 1. Lack of interest in the Weekly’s obviously overstrained creativity and attention to their Top 10 lists.

WATCH | His House Rotten Tomatoes has ranked “His House” in the No. 1 position for 2020. (In case you’re wondering, “Mulan” was ranked last in place No. 219.) It combines real horrors (war-torn countries whose citizens find it safest to flee) with real scary horrors (a sinister spirit living in the young couple’s new home in England). Yeah, 2020 was scary.


32

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

‘FIRST STOP, KEY LARGO; NEXT STOP, HOLLYWOOD!’ DIVE SAFETY MOVIE SHOOT COMES TO THE KEYS

1

I

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lived in Los Angeles for 15 years and I never stepped foot on a movie set, let alone starred in anything. Recently, though, I found myself in Key Largo, personally scouted for and filming a new safety TIFFANY video for Divers Alert Network (DAN). DUONG Actually, I take that is a self-made back. There was that one mermaid who time years ago when I loves all things accidentally wandered cheesy (romantic into a CSI (Crime Scene and dairy) and thrives in the 3 am Investigation) TV set in hour. She believes downtown L.A. A notin leaving it all on empty body bag lay in the field and has the alleyway that I always never met a (mis) shortcutted through to adventure she didn’t love. get to my building. I saw it and screamed. Heart racing, I backed away, straight into a set hand who tried to assure me everything was okay while holding a half-eaten donut. When the bludgeoned body in the bag sat up due to the commotion, I just about died. Turns out, CSI was filming near to my house, and I had wandered onto the set on break. That was the start and end of my very obscure run in with Hollywood … until now.

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About a month ago, several friends reached out to me about a DAN video shoot in the Keys. They were looking specifically for diverse divers to reflect their many offices, including some newly-acquired in the far East. Turns out, it’s all about who you know in this industry — scuba and movies. There aren’t that many Asians in the Keys’ dive community, so I had three different scuba buddies tap me for the role. One gracious friend said they were looking for beautiful Asians to help while another mentioned just being Asian and breathing as the minimum requirements. Either way, I decided this could be my “big (little) break” and a really fun way to contribute to an organization I believe in. DAN is the diving industry’s largest association dedicated to scuba diving safety and a mainstay for watermen and women in the Keys. I’ve been a member since my early dive days, so to be cast in the latest safety video had me “fan-girling,” to say the least. This was the fifth time they tried shooting the video. Wendy Berry, the video’s producer, told me how she and her husband, Ken, the producer and director, tried the shoot twice in California, where they live. Both were canceled due to pandemic shutdowns. Jim Gunderson, DAN’s assistant director of training, suggested the Florida

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Keys as an alternate location. The first time they tried to fly out to the Sunshine State, a California wildfire dangerously near the Berrys’ home prevented them from getting their gear or clothes. Our notoriously fickle winter weather (a.k.a. Tropical Storm Eta) put the kibosh on try two. Finally, just before Thanksgiving, the (Hollywood) stars aligned, and we began filming at John D. Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. “I would come back to Key Largo in a heartbeat,” Ken said. “We are very familiar. That’s part of the reason we chose the Keys: we knew what to expect. And, we could use a local videographer and local talent.” The local videographer was none other than Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Frazier Nivens, who knows these waters and the islands’ people as well as he knows the sharks he’s most famous for documenting. The amateur talent was mostly local, including dive instructors from Key Largo and Marathon and regular weekend dive customers from Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Oh, and me — little, Asian, breathing, diving me. Shalini Nemani, who works in biotech technology, and Christian Hernandez, who works for an insurance company, drove in from Tampa after hearing the call for more diverse talent. “I’m a big champion for diversity and inclusion, for fostering that sense of be-


IN THEIR OWN WORDS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

longing,” Nemani said. “I was happy to join because I want to see more people like me in this field, because it’s truly wonderful.” Nemani detailed how she couldn’t swim last year but is now scuba diving. She’s set her sights on a triathlon in the future. “It’s been a journey in self-discovery. I never realized how much I love the water until I embraced this sport,” she said, donning gloves and her pocket mask to get ready for her next scene. Adam Parks, the aquatic manager at Jacobs Aquatic Center in Key Largo, is also a dive instructor at Nova Southeastern and one of the hired guns. For him, being a part of the videos that he regularly uses to teach made it all worth it. “I can’t wait to teach DFA (Diving First Aid for Professional Rescuers) pro courses at my pool and say, ‘You should watch this guy, see what he says and watch what he does.’ It’ll build my credibility within the class for sure.” Because the video updates DAN’s first aid training, shooting it served as a great safety refresher for essential skills to have around the water. The finished product will be part of the online training curriculum at dan.diverelearning.com as well as part of the DAN courses available in most countries, Gunderson said. Aside from being on-site to properly demonstrate skills like CPR, oxygen administration and first aid for hazardous marine life injuries (read: bites), Gunderson also used “all the tricks” from his years in community theatre to make our falls realistic, our injuries believable and our rescues accurate. He embodied the perfect balance of safety and theatrical danger.

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“For me, this isn’t work any more. This is so fun,” he said. “I love this stuff. I’ve won five costume contests. You should see my Halloween decorations.” We learned the recipe for realistic fake blood (half a teaspoon of flour, 1 tablespoon of corn syrup, a quarter teaspoon of red food coloring, and one drop of blue food coloring) and that movie-set barf is recreated using oatmeal cookies and orange Gatorade. Hot dogs make for great choking props, and they really do say “Action!” on set. I texted my family pictures of myself with a head injury after purportedly tripping on a rock while walking back to the beach after snorkeling. “Look how real the fake blood is!” I said. “Mom, don’t worry, it is FAKE!,” I was sure to emphasize. Gunderson and the Berrys said I fell very naturally, which didn’t surprise me at all. “I’m really clumsy,” I replied. “I’m just pulling from real life.” My best friend found this hilarious, noting that my “special talents” have finally come in handy and that I was now getting paid for my clumsiness. The entire experience was a blast from start to finish. Many scenes started with jibes like, “Okay, are you gonna choke yet?” when a victim was taking too long to get to the point or questions like “Do you mind going into cardiac arrest for this one? We’re probably going to cut your shirt open.” Local Sarah Abbott, a nurse at Mariners and a longtime Keys diver and kiteboarder, was eager to “get bloody” for a barracuda bite reenactment. Nate Fosness, a local dive instructor, demonstrated how to deploy a tourniquet on Abbott.

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“Yes! I get to get bloody this time,” Abbott said. “I’m a nurse. Of course I’m down.” For the Berrys and Gunderson, they “couldn’t be happier” with how the shoot turned out, noting that everyone and everything “exceeded expectations.” The trio and Nivens have all worked together on various dive-related projects before and the Berrys actually met on the set of this same video shoot 15 years ago. Ken smirked, “Typical story: director hires model, falls in love with model.” As the shoot came to a close, I had a feeling that the good-natured atmosphere of the set was not something I would’ve experienced on an L.A. set. It felt like friends hanging out, laughing while painting on fake blood and fake-reviving each other from the brink of heat stroke and near-drowning. Ken affirmed this feeling. He said, “In coming to the Keys to work, the laid back feel translated to how we worked. Everyone came to work and everyone was helpful; nobody was a prima donna. For me as director, the laidback Keys vibe took away some pressure.” As I asked him about the last few days as talent, Hernandez told me, “I thought this could be a fun experience, and it has been. And look, you got my first interview. This will be huge when I’m big in Hollywood.” “Yeah, yeah. Hollywood — Florida!” his friend Nemani didn’t miss a beat. While I won’t be turning in my laptop for an actor’s trailer anytime soon, I’ll leave you with a quote from Breaking Bad actor Aaron Paul: “Thank you, Hollywood, for allowing me to be part of your group.” And that’s a wrap.

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1. After wrapping each day, the cast and crew got together for a quick picture. CONTRIBUTED 2. Key Largo’s Adam Parks assesses Marathon’s Luke Hutkin for Frazier Nivens’ camera. WENDY BERRY/Contributed 3. Horizon Divers’ regular Tony Wong performs CPR on Christian Hernandez for the camera while Shalini Nemani stands by. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly 4. I posed with the model baby that I saved several times using my DAN pocket mask. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly 5. Frazier Nivens films Tavernier’s Nate Fosness applying a tourniquet 6. Director Ken Berry and I made sure to smile for my head-injury-concussion picture to send to my mom. FRAZIER NIVENS/Contributed 7. Director and producer Ken Berry has been shooting DAN videos since 1996. WENDY BERRY/Contributed 8. Turns out, modeling is hard work! Even the dummies were pooped at the end of the day. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly

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34

KEYS DISEASE

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL! And to all a good night

A KEYS CHRISTMAS SONG

M

erry Christmas to all of you from all of us here at the Weekly Newspapers. To help keep you in that holiday spirit, I’ll present some festive Christmas quotes from wise people throughout the ages. • “Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before! What if Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from a store. What if Christmas ... perhaps ... means a little bit more!” – Dr. Seuss, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” • “How many observe Christ’s birthday! How few, His precepts!” – Benjamin Franklin • “Want to keep Christ in Christmas? Feed the hungry, clothe the naked, forgive the guilty, welcome the unwanted, care for the ill, love your enemies, and do unto others as you would have done unto you.” – Steve Maraboli • “Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.” – Norman Vincent Peale • “In the old days, it was not called the Holiday Season; the Christians called it ‘Christmas’ and went to church; the Jews called it ‘Hanukkah’ and went to synagogue; the atheists went to parties and drank. People passing each other on the street would say ‘Merry Christmas!’ or ‘Happy Hanukkah!’ or (to the atheists) ‘Look out for the wall!’” – Dave Barry • “The Supreme Court has ruled that they cannot have a nativity scene in Washington, D.C. This wasn't for any religious reasons. They couldn't find three wise men and a virgin.” – Jay Leno • “My idea of Christmas, whether oldfashioned or modern, is very simple: loving others. Come to think of it, why do we have to wait for Christmas to do that?” – Bob Hope • “The main reason Santa is so jolly is because he knows where all the bad girls live.” – George Carlin • “A lovely thing about Christmas is that it’s compulsory, like a thunderstorm, and we all go through it together.” – Garrison Keillor • “If my Valentine you won’t be, I'll hang myself on your Christmas tree.” – Ernest Hemingway

Marathon musician John Bartus pens and plays his own

L

ongtime Florida Keys singer-songwriter and Marathon City Council member John Bartus has released a new Christmas single, “Happy Holidays (My Own Damn Christmas Song).” Inspired by a real-life encounter, John wrote the acoustic Americana Christmas song in response to those who have a somewhat narrow-minded view of the holiday season. “I wished someone ‘Happy Holidays’ a few years back,” Bartus says. “He looked at me like I had six heads and said, ‘Where we come from, we say Merry Christmas!’” The song is a commentary about both the special time and true meaning of the holiday season as well as those who really believe that there’s a war on Christmas. Bartus recorded the song in his own studio, performing all the instruments and vocal tracks. The song is available worldwide on all the major download and streaming services like Apple/iTunes, Amazon, Pandora, Spotify, and more. Bartus will also have CD copies of the single available for sale at his live performances. “Happy Holidays” is also the lead-off single from his forthcoming CD, After The Storm. To listen, visit johnbartus. hearnow.com.

• “‘There are many things from which I might have derived good, by which I have not profited, I dare say,’ returned the nephew. ‘Christmas among the rest. But I am sure I have always thought of Christmas JOHN time, when it has come BARTUS round — apart from the is a City of Maraveneration due to its thon councilsacred name and origin, man. He also is if anything belonging a musician who performs around to it can be apart from that — as a good time; a town. For more kind, forgiving, charitable, see johnbartus. com pleasant time; the only time I know of, in the long calendar of the year, when men and women seem by one consent to open their shut-up hearts freely, and to think of people below them as if they really were fellow-passengers to the grave, and not another race of creatures bound on other journeys. And therefore, uncle, though it has never put a scrap of gold or silver in my pocket, I believe that it has done me good, and will do me good; and I say, God bless it!’” – Charles Dickens • “One of the most glorious messes in the world is the mess created in the living room on Christmas day. Don’t clean it up too quickly.” – Andy Rooney • “What kind of Christmas present would Jesus ask Santa for?” – Salman Rushdie • “Never worry about the size of your Christmas tree. In the eyes of children, they are all 30 feet tall.” – Larry Wilde • “Gifts of time and love are surely the basic ingredients of a truly merry Christmas.” – Peg Bracken • “I wish we could put up some of the Christmas spirit in jars and open a jar of it every month.” – Harlan Miller In the spirit of all that’s good on Christmas, I’d like to invite you to join me for a special Christmas Night Acoustic Concert on Facebook Live at 7:30 p.m. on… well, Christmas Night! I’ll be playing some of my favorite holiday music, and I’ll bet it’s some of yours as well. Find the concert at my Facebook page: www.facebook.com/john.bartus Catch John Wednesdays at Herbie’s, Thursdays at Sparky’s Landing, Fridays on Facebook Live for the Social Distancing Concerts, Saturday afternoon at Boondocks and Saturday night at the Key Colony Inn, and this Sunday at Boondocks. Music available wherever you get your streaming. www. facebook.com/john.bartus


35

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

Create your island oasis with plants, flowers, trees and more than 20 varieties of decorative stone from our native plant nursery and garden center.

DESIGN | INSTALL | MAINTAIN NATIVE PLANTS | PALMS | SHRUBS ORNAMENTALS | SOD | TREES | GRAVEL | SAND PAVERS | POTTERY | PLANTERS | DECOR

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OPEN TUESDAY THRU SUNDAY!

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

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @KIRBYSCLOSETKW


36

KEYS PETS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

SARA MATTHIS

sara@keysweekly.com

1

2

DUNN FAMILY DRESSES UP FOR THE HOLIDAYS very animal has a story, of course,” said Catherine Dunn, known far and wide for her love of animals. Sensing where this conversation might be going, she quickly adds, “Mike brings home more animals than I do!” Dr. Mike Dunn is the veterinarian at Keys Animal Hospital. “He shows up with his patients all the time. My kids have all administered intravenous fluids at some point,” Dunn said, laughing. That said, it’s nearly impossible to pin down how many animals are living at their

3

Marathon home at any time. The family takes in lots of rescues, and there’s no deadline set for when they have to leave. She works particularly closely with an organization in West Palm Beach called Rescue Life to rehome pigs, which the family has a particular penchant for. So … how many animals? “Well, the ones that we feed every day and bathe, 13. We have 13 animals,” she said. Robbed of the annual Santa and animal photo shoot at the Keys Animal Hospital every year, Dunn and her four kids staged their own Christmas photo shoot.

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5 1. Holly was rescued from New Smyrna Beach, liberated from a ghastly end as snake food. Snakes need to eat, too … but not this chicken. 2. Cheese has been with the family for a while now. “He’s just a dapper duck. He likes to dress up,” Dunn said. 3. Tink is 5 years old and an accomplished artist, a regular “Pig-asso.” Seriously, she loves to paint and is often the star of classroom visits (regular and in person). 4. Fergus is a rescue in reindeer antlers. A former patient at the clinic in need of a new home, Fergus just came home with Mike Dunn one day and stayed. 5. For the purposes of this photo shoot, Charley, 7, is the elfin zookeeper. “She’s a good helper,” Dunn said.


37

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

HAPPY HOLIDAZE! ALL LOCATIONS ARE CLOSED CHRISTMAS EVE & CHRISTMAS DAY

SUNDAY DECEMBER 27 9-1 ALL YOU CAN EAT PANCAKE BREAKFAST, DINNER 1-8 MONDAY, DECEMBER 28 THRU SATURDAY, JANUARY 2 LUNCH 11-2:30, DINNER 5-10!

My New Joint regular hours 4:20-11PM

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 26 THRU SATURDAY, JANUARY 2 4:20-MIDNIGHT! JOIN US FOR OUR NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY! 4:20-12:30AM! LIVE MUSIC 8:30PM UNTIL 12:30AM! WITH DAN HARVEY!

Y a d n u S Brun– ch Is Back! 8am 2pm

Unlimited Small Plates Bottomless Bloody Mary’s or Mimosas

RESERVE YOUR TABLE NOW FOR: - Christmas Eve Dinner - New Year's Eve Dinner - Christmas Day Brunch - New Year's Day Breakfast Mattsstockisland.com • 7001 SHRIMP RD. KEY WEST, FL 33040 TEL: 305.294.3939


38

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

BIG PINE KEY FLEA MARKET

INFLATABLE PARK FREE ADMISSION!

Looking for a fun & safe outdoor activity?

ENJOY SOCIALLY DISTANCED OUTDOOR SHOPPING! Masks required in all booths

NOW OPEN FOR THE 2020 - 2021 SEASON: SAT & SUN • 8AM TO 2PM

(305) 872-4103

30250 Overseas Highway • Big Pine Key, FL 33043

www.BigPineKeyFleaMarket.com


HEALTH

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

39

CLINICAL TRIALS FOR COVID-19 TREATMENTS LAUNCH AT MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE

P

Orthopedic surgeon Derek Papp gets the COVID-19 vaccine on Dec. 16 at the Hilton in Dadeland. Papp is affiliated with Homestead Hospital and Mariners Hospital in Tavernier. CONTRIBUTED

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON ONE OF FIRST IN KEYS TO GET VACCINE Some of the first Pfizer vaccines to protect against COVID-19 were distributed to parts of Florida earlier this week. Among the people to receive a dose during the initial rollout on Dec. 16 was a Keys orthopedic surgeon. Derek Papp has been with Baptist Health South Florida’s hospitals in Homestead and Tavernier for two years. Working in the emergency room and intensive care unit, and conducting surgery on COVID patients throughout, Papp fell into a high-risk category that allowed him to be one of the first health care workers to receive the vaccine. Papp first learned of the vaccine’s availability through communication he received the week before. On Dec. 16, Papp drove up to the Hilton Miami Dadeland, where a conference center was set up for vaccinations. “I picked the first day available because I wanted to get it done and I didn’t want to wait around,” Papp said. “They’re not distributing it to the hospitals. They’re doing it all at one place for doctors and nurses to get vaccinated.” Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine received emergency use authorization from the Federal Drug Administration on Dec. 11. The vaccine contains a small piece of the SARS-CoV-2 virus’s mRNA that instructs cells in the body to make the virus’s distinctive “spike” protein. When a person receives this vaccine, their body produces copies of the spike protein, which does not cause disease, but triggers the immune system to learn to react defensively, producing an immune response against SARS-CoV-2. Development of the vaccine happened in less than a year, and clinical trials were able to safely and effectively speed up mobilizing resources and cutting-edge technologies. “The FDA’s authorization for emergency use of the first COVID-19 vaccine is a significant milestone in battling this devastating pandemic that has affected so many families in the United States and around the world,” said FDA Commissioner Stephen M. Hahn. Papp said he was excited to obtain the vaccine, as it was a chance to “get some freedom back.” Papp will have to go back in three weeks to get a booster shot.

romising treatments coming from initial emergency and experimental COVID-19 therapies have developed into clinical trials that are launching this month at Miami Cancer Institute, part of Baptist Health South Florida. The institute is leading a trial using mesenchymal stem cells ― cells derived from umbilical cord lining tissue ― for critically ill patients with respiratory failure induced by SARS-CoV-2. It is also the location of the phase 2, BLAZE-4 trial, which continues work on bamlanivimab, a monoclonal antibody recently awarded Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) status by the Food and Drug Administration for those with mild COVID-19 symptoms. “It’s exciting to lead these nextgeneration clinical trials,” said Dr. Guenther Koehne, principal investigator, director and chief of stem cell transplantation, hematologic oncology and benign hematology at the Institute. “We have learned much about COVID-19 since the pandemic began last winter and our hope is that these trials will lead to tremendous treatment options for a wide range of patients.” Early in the pandemic, Miami Cancer Institute received single-use emergency approval from the FDA to give mesenchymal stem cells to several COVID-19 patients who were critically ill. The patients recovered. The stem cells aid in healing by regenerating damaged lung tissue. The formal, phase I/IIa trial opening now is for hospitalized patients who are receiving oxygen therapy or who are on ventilation support and are not showing improvement with other therapies. “In our early experience with these umbilical cord lining stem cells, we had very promising results,” Koehne said. “We are very hopeful that the clinical trial will give us evidence that this treatment can save the lives of patients who experience respiratory failure due to COVID-19.” The Florida Department of Health is allocating bamlanivimab for EUA use and Baptist Health has a limited supply. Miami Cancer Institute participated in the monoclonal antibody’s phase 1 study, BLAZE-1, which led to the EUA. Now the institute is enrolling patients in the phase 2 study, BLAZE-4. Bamlanivimab can be given as an IV infusion to COVID-19-positive patients who are not hospitalized and have mild symptoms. It must be administered within 72 hours of a positive test result. It works by prohib-

Dr. Guenther Koehne, chief of Blood & Marrow Transplantation and Hematologic Oncology, Miami Cancer Institute. CONTRIBUTED

iting the virus from anchoring to ACE2 receptors, which are proteins on the surface of many cells that allow the SARS-CoV-2 virus to enter and infect cells. In the initial study, it showed a subsequent hospitalization rate of 1.7 percent among those who received the drug versus a 6 percent hospitalization rate among those who received a placebo. The BLAZE-4 trial is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of bamlanivimab (also known as LY3819253) both on its own and in combination with another monoclonal antibody specific to target the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 to prevent the virus from entering into the epithelial cells (LY3832479). There are five arms to the trial. Arm 1 is a placebo. Arms 2, 3 and 4 consist of bamlanivimab plus a second monoclonal antibody (both given in different dosages). Arm 5 is bamlanivimab alone. “As a physician-scientist, I won’t settle for the standard of care. I am always looking for better. This is a promising step forward,” Koehne said. “We have reached a new level of sophistication ― trying to treat the virus before it makes you really sick.” The first trial showed that bamlanivimab may reduce viral load, symptoms and risk of hospitalizations and emergency room visits associated with COVID-19 and this trial may further improve the outcomes. “Despite the prospect of having COVID-19 vaccines in the future, which are intended to prevent from getting sick, we need to stay focused on the treatment of those individuals that are symptomatic from the virus,” Dr. Koehne added. More information is at baptisthealth.net/cancer-care/clinical. — Contributed


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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Destinations located at 99353 Overseas Hwy, Suite 9, Key Largo, FL 33037, intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. By: Jaclyn Kelley Publish: December 24, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Lilly & Lola’s Dog:30 located at 1025 White Street, Key West, FL 33040, intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. By: Linda Turek, Managing Sole Member on behalf of Hogan & Budde, LLC, a Florida limited liability company Publish: December 17 & 24, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING Florida Keys Council of the Arts Notice of Upcoming Meetings The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following meetings via Communications Media Technology using a ZOOM webinar platform. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public input will be: JOIN ZOOM via the Zoom app and use each meeting ID and password listed. Meetings are open to the public and all are invited to attend. Questions, or to RSVP, please email Liz Young at director@ keysarts.com Advisor Mentoring Sessions Wednesday, Jan 6, 2021 10:00 AM Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 846 6624 4343 Passcode: 597010 Advisor Mentoring Sessions Wednesday, Jan 6, 2021 5:00 PM Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 835 0956 5050 Passcode: 128487 Grant Panel Review Session Friday, Jan 8, 2021 1:00 PM Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 890 8645 1876 Passcode: 816251 Art in Public Places Committee Meeting Tuesday, Jan 12, 2021 4:00 PM Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 815 4103 8618 Passcode: 709868 Board of Directors & Annual Member's Meeting Thursday, Jan 28, 2021 11:00 AM Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 854 4328 6303 Passcode: 899550 Publish: December 24, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING The District I Advisory Committee (DAC I) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular scheduled meeting on Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at 3:00 p.m. via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform. Pursuant to Executive Order No. 20-69, Monroe County Emergency Directive 20-06, and the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) social-distancing guidelines established to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the January 13, 2021 regular meeting of the District I Advisory Committee will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform. If the Governor issues a subsequent order changing directives for Local Government

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

Public Meetings, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will provide updates on the County Website at MonroeCounty-FL.Gov. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: By joining the Zoom Meeting via weblink: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/86702080873 Meeting ID: 867 0208 0873 • By joining the Zoom Meeting via one tap mobile: One tap mobile +19292056099,, 86702080873# US (New York) +13017158592,, 86702080873# US (Washington, D.C.) Dial by your location +1 929 205 6099 US (New York) +1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) Meeting ID: 867 0208 0873 Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at Pacini-Maxine@ monroecounty-fl.gov, or by calling (305)296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Documents must be received no later than Friday 5:00 P.M. on January 8, 2021. All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more TDC Member or County Commissioners may be in attendance. ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”. Publish: December 24, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

Dial by your location +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago) +1 929 205 6099 US (New York) +1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) Meeting ID: 885 5117 5219 Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at Pacini-Maxine@ monroecounty-fl.gov, or by calling (305)296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Documents must be received no later than Friday 5:00 P.M. on January 8, 2021. All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more TDC Member or County Commissioners may be in attendance. ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”. Publish: December 24, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

no later than Friday 5:00 P.M. on January 8, 2021. All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more TDC Member or County Commissioners may be in attendance. ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”. Publish: December 24, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING The District II Advisory Committee (DAC II) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular scheduled meeting on Tuesday, January 12, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform. Pursuant to Executive Order No. 20-69, Monroe County Emergency Directive 20-06, and the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) social-distancing guidelines established to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the January 12, 2021 regular meeting of the District II Advisory Committee will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform. If the Governor issues a subsequent order changing directives for Local Government Public Meetings, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will provide updates on the County Website at MonroeCounty-FL.Gov. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: By joining the Zoom Meeting via weblink: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/88551175219 Meeting ID: 885 5117 5219 • By joining the Zoom Meeting via one tap mobile: One tap mobile +19292056099,, 88551175219# US (New York) +13017158592,, 88551175219# US (Washington, D.C.)

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING The District III Advisory Committee (DAC III) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular scheduled meeting on Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform. Pursuant to Executive Order No. 20-69, Monroe County Emergency Directive 20-06, and the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) social-distancing guidelines established to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the January 13, 2021 regular meeting of the District III Advisory Committee will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform. If the Governor issues a subsequent order changing directives for Local Government Public Meetings, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will provide updates on the County Website at MonroeCounty-FL.Gov. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: By joining the Zoom Meeting via weblink: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/85037387393 Meeting ID: 850 3738 7393 • By joining the Zoom Meeting via one tap mobile: One tap mobile +13126266799,, 85037387393# US (Chicago) +19292056099,, 85037387393# US (New York) Dial by your location +1 929 205 6099 US (New York) +1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) Meeting ID: 850 3738 7393 Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at Pacini-Maxine@ monroecounty-fl.gov, or by calling (305)296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Documents must be received

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING The District IV Advisory Committee (DAC IV) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular scheduled meeting on Tuesday, January 12, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform. Pursuant to Executive Order No. 20-69, Monroe County Emergency Directive 20-06, and the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) social-distancing guidelines established to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the January 12, 2021 regular meeting of the District IV Advisory Committee will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform. If the Governor issues a subsequent order changing directives for Local Government Public Meetings, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will provide updates on the County Website at MonroeCounty-FL.Gov. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: By joining the Zoom Meeting via weblink: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/89082675619 Meeting ID: 890 8267 5619 • By joining the Zoom Meeting via one tap mobile: One tap mobile +19292056099,, 89082675619# US (New York) +13017158592,, 89082675619# US (Washington, D.C.) Dial by your location +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago) +1 929 205 6099 US (New York) +1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) Meeting ID: 890 8267 5619 Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at Pacini-Maxine@ monroecounty-fl.gov, or by calling (305)296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Documents must be received no later than Friday 5:00 P.M. on January 8, 2021. All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more TDC Member or County Commissioners may be in attendance. ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired,

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES call “711”. Publish: December 24, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING The District V Advisory Committee (DAC V) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular scheduled meeting on Tuesday, January 12, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform. Pursuant to Executive Order No. 20-69, Monroe County Emergency Directive 20-06, and the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) social-distancing guidelines established to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the January 12, 2021 regular meeting of the District V Advisory Committee will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform. If the Governor issues a subsequent order changing directives for Local Government Public Meetings, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will provide updates on the County Website at MonroeCounty-FL.Gov. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: By joining the Zoom Meeting via weblink: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/86076498346 Meeting ID: 860 7649 8346 • By joining the Zoom Meeting via one tap mobile: One tap mobile +19292056099,, 86076498346# US (New York) +13017158592,, 86076498346# US (Washington, D.C.) Dial by your location +1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago) +1 929 205 6099 US (New York) +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Meeting ID: 860 7649 8346 Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at Pacini-Maxine@ monroecounty-fl.gov, or by calling (305)296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Documents must be received no later than Friday 5:00 P.M. on January 8, 2021. All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more TDC Member or County Commissioners may be in attendance. ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”. Publish: December 24, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 20-CP-000091-M IN RE: ESTATE OF DIANE MARIE FILETTO, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Diane Marie Filetto, deceased, whose date of death was November 11, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: December 24, 2020. Personal Representative: Joseph Paul Filetto 7676 Cedar Drive Pasadena, Maryland 21122 Attorney for Personal Representative: Robert K. Miller, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 0359173 Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938 Marathon, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-9428 Fax: (305) 743-8800 E-mail: service@floridakeyslaw. com Secondary E-Mail: rmiller@ floridakeyslaw.com Publish: December 24 & 31, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings. Dated this 3rd day of December, 2020 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shakia Mitchell Deputy Clerk Publish: December 10, 17, 24 & 31, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No.: 2020-DR-628-K Division: Family DANIEL ARIC HYLTON, Petitioner/Husband, and MIROSLAVA PATAKYOVA, Respondent/Wife. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: MIROSLAVA PATAKYOVA Last Known Address: 1992 SEIDENBERG AVENUE, KEY WEST, FLORIDA 33040 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Cynthia F. Civil, Esq., CYNTHIA F. CIVIL, P.A., Attorney for Petitioner, whose address is 5196 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050, on or before January 10, 2021, and file the original with the Clerk of the Circuit Court, Family Division, 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No.: 20-CA-208-P NEPTUNE ATLANTIC BOAT LIFTS, LLC, a Florida limited liability company, Plaintiff, v. CARLOS MICHAEL AGUERA, individually and as Co-Trustee of the Carlos and Ana Aguera Revocable Trust Dated February 6, 2019, and ANA C. AGUERA, as Co-Trustee of the Carlos and Ana Aguera Revocable Trust Dated February 6, 2019, Defendants. NOTICE OF ACTION TO: Carlos Michael Aguera, as Co-Trustee of The Carlos and Ana Aguera Revocable Trust Dated February 6, 2019 20221 SW 48th Place Southwest Ranches, FL 33332 Last Known Address YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose a claim of lien on the below described real property in Monroe County, Florida has been filed against you: Lot 33, Port Antigua Plat No. 1, according to the Plat thereof, Recorded in Plat Book 6, Page(s) 13, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida Parcel ID 00394486-003300 You are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to the Complaint on Plaintiff’s attorneys, John. W. Annesser, Esq., Annesser Armenteros, PLLC, 2525 Ponce De Leon Blvd., Suite 625, Coral Gables, Florida 33134, (786) 600-7446, service@ aa-firm.com, jannesser@aa-firm. com, mconkey@aa.firm.com and lconley@aa-firm.com, on or before January 18, 2021, and file the original with the Clerk of this Court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorneys or immediately thereafter, otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint or petition. DATED on December 11, 2020. Kevin Madok, CPA, Clerk As Clerk of the Court By: Riza Tabag As Deputy Clerk Publish: December 24 & 31, 2020 and January 7 & 14, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No.: 20-CA-208-P NEPTUNE ATLANTIC BOAT LIFTS, LLC, a Florida limited liability company, Plaintiff, v.


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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

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

LEGAL NOTICES

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CARLOS MICHAEL AGUERA, individually and as Co-Trustee of the Carlos and Ana Aguera Revocable Trust Dated February 6, 2019, and ANA C. AGUERA, as Co-Trustee of the Carlos and Ana Aguera Revocable Trust Dated February 6, 2019, Defendants. NOTICE OF ACTION TO: Carlos Michael Aguera, Individually 20221 SW 48th Place Southwest Ranches, FL 33332 Last Known Address YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose a claim of lien on the below described real property in Monroe County, Florida has been filed against you: Lot 33, Port Antigua Plat No. 1, according to the Plat thereof, Recorded in Plat Book 6, Page(s) 13, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida Parcel ID 00394486-003300 You are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to the Complaint on Plaintiff’s attorneys, John. W. Annesser, Esq., Annesser Armenteros, PLLC, 2525 Ponce De Leon Blvd., Suite 625, Coral Gables, Florida 33134, (786) 600-7446, service@ aa-firm.com, jannesser@aa-firm. com, mconkey@aa.firm.com and lconley@aa-firm.com, on or before January 18, 2021, and file the original with the Clerk of this Court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorneys or immediately thereafter, otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint or petition. DATED on December 11, 2020. Kevin Madok, CPA, Clerk As Clerk of the Court By: Riza Tabag As Deputy Clerk Publish: December 24 & 31, 2020 and January 7 & 14, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

service on Plaintiff’s attorneys or immediately thereafter, otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint or petition. DATED on December 11, 2020. Kevin Madok, CPA, Clerk As Clerk of the Court By: Riza Tabag As Deputy Clerk Publish: December 24 & 31, 2020 and January 7 & 14, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

1997 Grady White 209 Escape 21’ center console. New custom T-top, new rub rails. Brand new electronics and switches. 2 stroke Mercury outboard. $15,000 OBO Located in Marathon. Call 305-481-1463

City of Marathon - Job O p e n i n g : Street Maintenance. EOE, FULL BENEFITS www.ci.marathon.fl.us

PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & W a t c h e s . Call 305-743-4578

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No.: 20-CA-208-P NEPTUNE ATLANTIC BOAT LIFTS, LLC, a Florida limited liability company, Plaintiff, v. CARLOS MICHAEL AGUERA, individually and as Co-Trustee of the Carlos and Ana Aguera Revocable Trust Dated February 6, 2019, and ANA C. AGUERA, as Co-Trustee of the Carlos and Ana Aguera Revocable Trust Dated February 6, 2019, Defendants. NOTICE OF ACTION TO: Ana C. Aguera, as Co-Trustee of the Carlos and Ana Aguera Revocable Trust Dated February 6, 2019 20221 SW 48th Place Southwest Ranches, FL 33332 Last Known Address YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose a claim of lien on the below described real property in Monroe County, Florida has been filed against you: Lot 33, Port Antigua Plat No. 1, according to the Plat thereof, Recorded in Plat Book 6, Page(s) 13, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida Parcel ID 00394486-003300 You are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to the Complaint on Plaintiff’s attorneys, John. W. Annesser, Esq., Annesser Armenteros, PLLC, 2525 Ponce De Leon Blvd., Suite 625, Coral Gables, Florida 33134, (786) 600-7446, service@ aa-firm.com, jannesser@aa-firm. com, mconkey@aa.firm.com and lconley@aa-firm.com, on or before January 18, 2021, and file the original with the Clerk of this Court either before

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 20-CA-000247-K DIVISION: Civil Beach House Condominium Association of Key West, Inc., a nonprofit corporation under the laws of the State of Florida, Plaintiff, vs. Pamela Loriene Hutchinson, et al. Defendants. Notice of Sale as to Count(s) I Notice is hereby given that on January 13, 2021 at 11:00AM, the below named Clerk of Court will, at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the following described Timeshare Ownership Interest: Unit B34, Week 37, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). (Contract No.: 3-9855) Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from this sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens must file a claim before the clerk reports the surplus as unclaimed. The sale is being held pursuant to the Final Judgment of Foreclosure, entered on December 10, 2020, in Civil Case No. 20-CA-000257-K, pending in the Circuit Court in Monroe County, Florida. KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Publish: December 24 & 31, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

AUTOS WANTED ALL YEARS! Junk or Used. Cars - Vans - TrucksRunning or Not. $CASH$ 305-332-0483

AUTOS FOR SALE 2001 XK8 Jaguar Red Convertible. 74k miles. Excellent condition. Located in Upper Keys. $6,000 Call 305-766-6804 SOLD IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!! Place your Car For Sale ad here. Only $25.00/ week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today and Sell Your Car!

BOATS FOR SALE

Place your Boat For Sale ad here. Only $25.00/ week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today and Sell Your Boat!

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

EMPLOYMENT CDL Driver needed. Minimum 2 years experience. Call 305-2486149 to apply. CEI Inspector needed in Marathon, FL. Fulltime position. Must have high school diploma or equivalent and valid driver’s license. Relevant construction experience is a plus. Email resume to: Pom.Chak k aphak@wsp. com Serve/Bartend on the ocean FT/PT Ocean front private swim club is seeking customer service oriented Server/Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/or bar lounge. Open year round, 10am-7pm daily. Full time/Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at Cabana Club, 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call April (305) 393-0631. Keys Fisheries looking to hire Process Foods Manager, pie makers, process food workers, lobster processors and forklift driver to expand the production of the products that we are now selling to various large supermarkets. These positions will be full time and be eligible for a benefits package. Apply within at 3390 Gulfview Avenue, Marathon Boat rental company in Marathon needs mechanic with knowledge of outboard motors Call 305-481-7006

Place your Employment ad here. Only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today and get the job filled! Bridge Operator position available in the Snake Creek Drawbridge, located in Islamorada. Paid training will be provided. Payrate: $10.50/hr. Email resume to jschultz@ fdi.team or call Jeff Schultz at 708-214-0311. HIRED TWO NEW EMPLOYEES thanks to advertising in the Keys Weekly Newspapers!! Looking for a daycare teacher. Will get trained and certified through the daycare if needed. MonFri Full time position avail. Contact Banana Cabana Academy at banana. cabana@att.net with resume or call 305-745-1400 to schedule an interview. HIRED IN LESS THAN ONE MONTH!! Digital Marketing Consultant needed. Great growth opportunities. Will train right person. Key West Office, more at TwoOceansDigital.com/ jobs HIRED IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK!! Part-time clerical help needed in Marathon. 24 hrs per week. Filing, Customer Service, some computer work. Email: dbabbe@ a cc u rate e l e vato r s. co m HIRED IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!!

HOUSING FOR RENT Place your Home For Rent ad here. Only $25.00/ week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today and rent your house! Trailer For Rent - 1BR/1BA 28' trailer w/slide-out. $1,200/month F/L/$600 security. Includes parking, Wi-Fi, Direct TV, water & garbage, you pay electric. No pets. No smoking. Background check required. Come in person to view property Monday-Friday 8am-5pm. 2525 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050 RENTED IN LESS THAN THREE WEEKS!!! Long-term, 2BR/2BA Condo in Key Colony Beach. Furnished, screened patio, includes water, sewer, basic cable and ocean accessibility. $2,000/ month Call 716-913-3576 RENTED IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!!!

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

NOW HIRING EXPERIENCED PLUMBER

Service area Key Largo – Marathon Driver’s License required. Benefits included.

305-906-1384

License # CFC057294

NOW HIRING! Part Time Maintenance Housekeepers for Saturday and some Sunday Call 305-587-0359 to apply.

Place your Office Space For Rent ad here. Only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today and rent your space!

YARD SALES Place your Yard Sale ad here. Only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today and get your stuff sold!

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

The Turtle Hospital in Marathon Immediate openings: full and part-time Educational Program Guides/Gift Shop Sales. Public speaking & retail sales experience helpful. $12.00/hour to start Send resume to: turtlehosp@aol.com

Absolute Auction

Warehouse Blow-Out Sale Tuesday December 29th @ 11AM Inspection begins @ 9AM morning of sale 2171 N Dixie Hwy., Pompano Beach, FL 33060 3,000+ Bottles of Liquor, Wine & Beer, True Keg Cooler, 36” Curved Deli Case, Delfield 60” Sandwich Prep Table, 48” Victory Sandwich Prep Table, 72” Sandwich Prep Table, S/S 1,2 & 3 Door Coolers, Imperial Fryers, 6 Burner Range, 36” – 48” Char-Broilers, Traulsen Revolving Pie Case, 5’ Open Display Cooler, Blodgett Double Stack Convection Oven, Hickory Rotisserie, Deluxe Convection Oven, Glass Door Freezer, Ice Merchandiser, Under Counter Cooler, Under Counter Freezer, Ice Cream Cabinet, Holding Cabinet, Bakers Pride Double Stack Pizza Oven, Vulcan Upright Broiler, Small Wares & MORE..

Toby Neverett Auctioneers www.neverettauctions.com 561-706-7218 * au872 ab628

FLORIDA KEYS DIESEL - MARATHON

NOW HIRING: Diesel Technician position available.

Competitive compensation package. Experience in the marine field preferred but not necessary. Experience with Caterpillar and Cummins Marine Engines a plus.

Diesel Mechanic Assistant position available.

Looking for a motivated candidate willing to learn a new trade or expand current skills. Company willing to train. Qualified applicants please call 305-289-2070 or email resume to neil@allkeysdiesel.com . Drug Free and valid Drivers License a must.


42

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

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

The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

NOW HIRING

IS HIRING!

RESTAURANT HOST

Behavioral Health Counselor Client Advocate

SERVERS BARTENDERS FOOD RUNNER PUBLIC AREA ATTENDANT LAUNDRY ATTENDANT ROOM ATTENDANTS BELLMEN LINE COOK SOUS CHEF BAKER APPLY AT: bungalowskeylargo.com/careers

KEY LARGO KEY WEST

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

MARATHON

Behavioral Health Counselor Care Coordinator Behavioral Health Therapist (Children) RNs and LPNs (3 shifts) (PT/FT & per diem) Peer Support Specialist Drop In Technician (PT) Driver (CDL preferred) *Assisted Living Direct Care Worker (PT/FT) *Behavioral Health Technicians (3 shifts) (PT/FT & per diem) *Night Monitor (FREE HOUSING!!!!) *No experience necessary. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands required. Ability to work some evening or weekend shifts a plus. If you’ve wanted to get into the medical field but don’t have the education, this is the job for you!

Background and drug screen req. Bungalows Key Largo is an EOE

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

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

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

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER 58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL Teaching... Learning... Caring Do you love dolphins, being outdoors and taking photographs? We have the job for you! Dolphin Research Center has full-time openings for Visual Communications Staff Members (Permanent & Seasonal opportunities available). Applicants should be familiar with digital photography/videography. Benefits include medical, life, disability insurance, 401(k), paid vacation, sick & holidays. Job description available at www.dolphins.org. E-mail cover letter, DRC application and your resume to drc-hr@dolphins.org. EOE

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

Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers CDL Drivers Applicants must apply in person to be considered. 4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS NEEDED! Monroe County School District

Salary $17.15 – $24.15/hour Key West, Sugarloaf, Marathon and Upper Keys (4 work locations) No Experience Required, Benefits, CDL Training Provided – work as a Bus Aide while training, Full Time or Flexible, Part Time Hours - 6 to 9 am or 1 or 2 to 5 pm Apply online: www.keysschools.com

NOW HIRING

Marathon, Big Pine Key & Stock Island Locations

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

$15 per hour to start FT Employees are eligible to participate in our health, dental, vision, Life Insurance. PTO and Profit Sharing is available to every member of our team (conditions apply). HOW TO APPLY: Go to mytomthumb.com or call Cleveland (786) 295-5307.

$50,000 salary plus commission and benefits for qualified candidates. Send your confidential resume to britt@keysweekly.com.


KEYS SCENES

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

43

This year’s Christmas card. TERESA HOLMES/Contributed

It’s not Christmas until Cameron puts up the ol’ Lobster Trap Christmas Tree at Cudjoe Sales Fisherman Warehouse. It’s been a rough year for everyone in the Keys, but the commercial fishermen we support have supported us through it all. This time of year makes me appreciate the people of the Florida Keys, and just how special it is to live here. DENISE ROWLAND/Contributed Enjoying the sun and the season. TAMARA ALVAREZ/Contributed

Dete Israel, left, owner of Salon Dete, and Whitney MacEachern, owner of Cirque Salon Studios of Key Largo, pose for a pre-event photo at the third annual “Jingle and Mingle.” WHITNEY MacEACHERN/Contributed

Maynard the manatee mailbox wishes y’all a safe and merry Christmas. JUDI GORMAN/Contributed Ella likes to make cards for people every year and this year her card to Frank’s Grill pretty much sums up 2020. CATHERINE RENAULD/Contributed

Katie and Chase at the fishing buoy Christmas tree in Historic Seaport Square in Key West. SANDY SCHNEIDER/Contributed

At the Oechsle household in Marathon, tradition is important. For 15 years, Jeni Oechsle has faithfully attended to her advent calendar. Mom Janet says she doesn’t miss a day. JANET OECHSLE/Contributed

A lighthouse at Wahoo’s in Islamorada decked out for the holidays. JO-ANNA MARY/Contributed

Enjoyed our Hanukkah menorah candle lighting tradition, made warmer and brighter by using my childhood menorah from my parents’ home growing up. LYNN DILS/ Contributed

TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

O

ur theme for JANUARY is FRESH STARTS. January always brings new year’s resolutions, fresh hopes, lots of workout gear purchased with the best intentions, and clearing of bad juju and holiday ham. Send us your favorite interpretation of a fresh start, whether that’s a new haircut, a snapshot of you at the gym, or a picture of you from the first day of work. We’re kicking 2020 way outta here and celebrating all the good things that 2021 has to offer us.

HOLIDAYS AT HOME Photos, captions and photo credit can be emailed to tiffany@keysweekly.com. Rules, schmules • All photos must be original work and feature something in the Keys. • Photos can be images that have been published before. • No third party may own or control any materials the photo contains, and the photo must not infringe upon the trademark, copyright, moral

rights, intellectual rights, or rights of privacy of any entity or person. • Any person agrees, by submitting photos, that photos submitted can be used by the Keys Weekly for any and all purposes, including but not limited to advertising, charity work, sales, future editorial, print in the newspapers or online or on social media posts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and any other social media platforms as may come about.


44

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

Royal Furniture in Key West is looking for a motivated, hardworking FRESH NEW MENU

store manager

NEW PATIO DINING

COMPETITIVE PAY & BENEFITS AVAILABLE

&

Call Christopher: 305-481-1790

1405 Duval Street, Key West // 305.295.6550 southernmostbeachresort.com #somolife

: g n i r u t ow Fea

N

Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner www.RoyalFurnitureAndDesign.com

Royal Furniture in Key West is looking for motivated, hardworking people to join our sales team COMPETITIVE PAY & BENEFITS AVAILABLE

Call Christopher: 305-481-1790 (The Local Butcher items are not applicable towards the Free Birthday Entrée Offer)

www.RoyalFurnitureAndDesign.com


BOOKS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

THE UNPUTDOWNABLES OF 2020

M

any people have read more books this year than ever before. There are dozens of top seller lists created by publishers, not actual readers, and it can be overwhelming to choose. Let me save you some time! These five picks will keep you up late into the night. These are the books of 2020 that shouldn’t be missed.

THE HENNA ARTIST By Alka Joshi Lakshmi is alone in the city of Jaipur in the 1950s. This simple young woman escaped her arranged marriage and will do anything for a better life and brighter future. Lakshmi is both an artist and a healer. If one good thing came out of her violent marriage, it was her mother-in-law, who taught her the many secrets of natural medicine. This captivating story will take you through the crowded streets of India and the caste system that keeps Lakshmi down. Appreciating every moment of her hard won independence, Lakshmi is thrown for a loop when her former husband reappears and some of the jealous ladies are more concerned with their reputations than the truth. Colorful novel filled with the tastes and traditions of another place in another time.

AMERICAN DIRT By Jeanine Cummins Lydia lives a fairly quiet life in Acapulco, Mexico. She runs a quaint bookstore and adores her husband Sebastian and their young son, Luca. Content with her comfortable routine, Lydia is surprised when an enigmatic stranger befriends her in the bookstore. Javier and Lydia share an unexpected literary and spiritual connection and she treasures both his visits and flattering intellect. As a journalist her husband runs a risky article exposing the local drug cartel that keeps their city steeped in violence and fear. When Lydia accidentally discovers the head of the cartel is her treasured friend Javier, her once peaceful life is ripped to shreds. Fleeing with Luca, Lydia does everything she can to get them out of Mexico. Heart-stopping suspense that will have you on the edge of your seat from the first page to the last.

THE LAST FLIGHT By Julie Clark Claire married a powerful man, a politician through and through. A whirlwind romance a decade earlier has now become a sham. Rory’s cruel words have become physical and Claire is exhausted. This beautiful independent woman once had a career and good friends, Rory has taken that all away. As she represents the family business, Claire finds herself at JFK airport on another Cook Foundation trip. Last minute changes alter her route and Claire’s meticulously crafted plan to disappear through Canada is upended. When an unexpected opportunity falls at her feet, she cannot resist. She switches places and tickets with a complete stranger, a woman named Eva who also yearns for escape. As this thriller takes off in the most unexpected ways, freedom is just within reach. The question is … for whom?

THE BOYS’ CLUB By Erica Katz Gorgeous, smart, recent Harvard grad Alex Vogel is taking New York by storm. She has just begun a dream job at one of the top law firms in Manhattan and moved into a swanky apartment with her longtime beau. The junior associate class has very few women and none make it into the competitive Mergers and Acquisitions department. Alex, a former athlete, cannot resist going for the gold. As she slowly drowns in the insane work hours, Alex feels an adrenaline rush with every successful deal she helps close, not to mention the unavoidable chemistry with her handsome boss. With all morals out the window, Alex must decide how far she is willing to go down the rabbit hole of Big Law and big bucks to find the truth.

KAREN NEWFIELD

THE GIRL WITH THE LOUDING VOICE By Abi Dare There is nothing Adunni loves more than going to school. As a 14-year-old girl living in a small village in Nigeria, she dreams of becoming a teacher. When her mama passes away, her father quickly arranges her marriage as third wife to the old man who drives taxis. School is no longer an option and Adunni sees her future slipping away. Surviving verbal and physical abuse, Adunni escapes to the big city of Lagos where she becomes a housemaid. While scrubbing floors with a toothbrush, Adunni decides she must embrace her louding voice. Realizing a slave does not always wear chains, Adunni is desperate to finally be heard. With help from a new friend, she can once again dream of a future. This is a wholly original and deeply moving story of resilience and hope.

... a reader and now a writer, has hundreds of book reviews at: www.readingandeating.com. For questions and comments, email karen@newfield.org.

45


46

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

LET’S DO BUSINESS - 305.453.6928 Licensed & Insured #SP33799

GENERAL CONTRACTORS & ENGINEERS

SPALLING

ALL KEYS GLASS

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Windows • Doors

305-743-7800

Authorized Dealer

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

EXPERTS

2728 North Roosevelt Blvd. Overseas Market Key West

NOW HIRING!

Sewer Connections 305

872-1876

• New Construction • Remodeling • Irrigation

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

We Also Repair & Replace Patio Door Screens

305-998-8953

305

296-BLUE

• Heavy Equipment • Solar Lic## RF11067168

PC 606

Proud member of:

INTERNATIONAL

CONCRETE REPAIR INSTITUTE

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

Appliance and Air Conditioning

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

Insured • Professional • Reliable

Sportfishing Adventures

Dolphin-Tuna-Wahoo-Billfish-Snapper-Grouper-Shark Deep Sea –Off Shore-Reef-Wrecks-Gulf

info@johnnymaddoxcharters.com

305-481-3259

Keys Fisheries Market & Marina Mile Marker 48.5, Marathon End of 35th Street Bayside

Tewes Mortgage

Your local, residential lending expert!

Call 305.495.6000

SOLAR DONE RIGHT! CALL US FOR A FREE HOME ESTIMATE

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

for a FREE Consultation

Brian Tewes

• SINCE 1989 •

Customer service is my strength Brian@tewesmortgage.com

305-289-1150

NMLS# 375025 Tewes Mortgage NMLS# 1453791 NMLSConsumerAccess.org Florida Solar Contractor CVC 56734

www.TewesMortgage.com

Serving Key Largo to Key West

Serving Monroe, Dade & Broward Including Airports & Ports. SUV, Van & Limousine options available Call us for special events.

Only $50 Puts Your Business Card Here

305-743-7454

fkes2011@gmail.com floridakeysexpressshuttle.com

When It Rains It Pours! Need 7” Gutters? We have 6” & 7” Seamless • Copper Specialists

Key West 305-292-2666

MARATHON

305-743-0506

KEY LARGO

305-852-5356

rainsavergutters@gmail.com

Cell: 305-363-8330 Office: 305-735-4626 will@cecflk.com www.CECFLK.com

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

Will Campbell President

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


47

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

ONE UNIQUE PROPERTY TWO EXCEPTIONAL HOMES COUNTLESS MEMORIES TO BE MADE

287 & 289 GOLF CLUB DRIVE | KEY WEST KeyWestGolfClubCompound.com Listing ID 593486 Jeffrey Dunaway, Realtor® 305.360.3049 | jrmdunaway@earthlink.net

1109 Duval Street, Key West Toll free 1.800.654.5131 | Phone 305.294.3064 keywestrealty.com


48

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 24, 2020

305.433.2020

FREE

DELIVERY 15% LOCALS DISCOUNT (WITH LOCAL ID)

700 FRONT STREET AT THE HISTORIC KEY WEST SEAPORT

KEY WEST

WAHLBURGERS GOES 11 AM TO 11 PM

DINE IN | CURBSIDE PICKUP | 305.433.2020


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