Upper Keys Weekly 24-1121

Deputies slug it out for a worthy cause | P. 20

ISLAMORADA COUNCIL BEGINS Crosswalk plans kiboshed | P. 9

CLASSY SPEAKEASY OPENS VFW post upgrades with elegant bar | P. 22

Elysian Bay

The literal meaning of paradise comes alive here at Elysian Bay. Enter this stunning and incredibly reimagined bay-front residence exuding luxury living with the natural beauty of its coastal surroundings. The open-concept design showcases the panoramic Florida Bay views of the coveted high-elevation Plantation Key location. The spacious living area features a chef's kitchen, high ceilings, extra large Eurowall impact doors, and windows highlighted by elegantly simplistic finishes. The primary suite overlooks the resort-inspired gardens, enhancing your outdoor experience on the Bay. Additional guest bedrooms, both upstairs and downstairs, are beautifully designed, ensuring comfort and privacy for family and friends. Ample, multi-boat protected dockage with lift, lounging beach, tiki torches, outdoor shower, jacuzzi, tackle house, and lagoon waterfall pool outfit this property with the perfect playground for all. Step outside and soak up the breathtaking sunsets where Elysian Bay offers quiet seclusion and the heavenly Islamorada lifestyle you've been waiting to embrace.

4.5M

NEWSPAPERS

89240 Overseas Hwy. Suite 2

Tavernier, FL 33070

Office: 305.363.2957 www.keysweekly.com

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Editor / Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com

Digital Editor / Ashley Hobart ashley@keysweekly.com

Business Development

Jill Miranda Baker jill@keysweekly.com

Account Executive Oliver Allison oliver@keysweekly.com

Staff Writers Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Production Manager Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Comptroller / Sarah Simcic sarah@keysweekly.com

Design / Pre-Press

Diana Striker www.keysweekly.com

Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com

Ashley Hobart ashley@keysweekly.com

Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844

Se habla español THE UPPER KEYS WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050.

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

Postmaster

SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO THE KEYS WEEKLY, 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050

News Deadline

Monday Noon

Advertising Deadline

Tuesday 2 p.m.

@KeysWeekly

@theWeekly

Members of

Floridians are expected to hit the roads in record numbers ahead of Thanksgiving. AAA says it expects 4.5 million residents will travel 50 miles or more for the holiday. It’s an all-time high for Thanksgiving and 112,000 more travelers than last year, per AAA.

Monroe County detention deputy Dominic Figueroa swings the bat during a charity softball game at Founders Park on Nov. 16. CINDY SMITH/Contributed

COUNTY OFFICIALS BACK TOURISM PRESIDENT & BOARD

Commission cancels website & advertising contracts as of March 31

MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

Florida Keys officials spurned the status quo this week by ending a 30-year relationship during a very public breakup, or at least a trial separation. It happened at the Nov. 19 county commission meeting — and it wasn’t mutual.

The board of county commissioners (BOCC) upheld the Oct. 29 recommendations of the Tourist Development Council (TDC) by voting to terminate its decades-long contracts with website and digital services provider Two Oceans Digital, and with Tinsley Advertising, which for 40 years has planned, designed, produced, edited, placed and scheduled the Keys’ print, broadcast and digital ads and commercials.

The recommendation to rebid those contracts was prompted by audits the county clerk and independent consultant conducted earlier this year to examine the TDC’s contracts with the agencies. Auditors were alarmed by the outdated contract with Two Oceans, which grants the company 100% of advertising revenue from the Florida Keys’ tourism website at fla-keys.com. White the contract made sense 30 years ago, when digital advertising was just getting started, it has led to a situation that is lopsided for the TDC, but quite lucrative for Two Oceans.

The clerk’s audits of the Tinsley contract did not contain any of the same concerns, but TDC president and CEO Kara Franker told the TDC board she is concerned by the fees Tinsley is charging the county. Both companies previously expressed a willingness to renegotiate their contracts and to submit bids for their old jobs in response to the new Requests for Proposals that will be issued for website and digital services, and for an advertising agency to potentially replace the current agencies.

Dorn Martell, co-owner of Tinsley,

asked the commissioners during the Nov. 19 meeting not to cancel Tinsley’s contract, but to go ahead and issue the new RFP. Martell said Tinsley needs to schedule and buy advertising slots a year in advance, and canceling the contract would impede their ability to do that.

Franker pushed back on Martell’s statements, telling county commissioners that ad placement can be scheduled and bought quarterly and in smaller batches and need not be done a year in advance. The commission ultimately voted to terminate both contracts effective March 31 to allow enough time for the TDC staff, board and Franker to issue two new RFPs for digital marketing and website services and advertising services. Bids will be reviewed and ranked by an evaluation committee before the TDC board and then the county commission finalizes the new contracts.

County commissioners, TDC board members and Franker all have encouraged Tinsley and Two Oceans to submit proposals in response to the new RFPs.

Why all the changes?

A series of audits by the county clerk of the TDC, along with its contracts with Two Oceans Digital and Tinsley Advertising revealed that the TDC was significantly overpaying Two Oceans, given the payment structure in which Two Oceans keeps 100% of all advertising revenue generated by fla-keys.com. The audit estimated that Two Oceans is making $600,000 to $1.2 million a year on that advertising, but is providing the TDC with services that likely would cost less than $200,000 a year.

The audit report states that the payment structure in which Two Oceans keeps all ad revenue made more sense for the TDC when the contract was initiated in 1995, when

Tinsley Advertising has been producing and placing print, digital and television ads for Monroe County tourism for 40 years. CONTRIBUTED

online advertising was nearly nonexistent.

Times — and technology — have changed dramatically since 1995. And while the contract for the TDC’s website and digital services has been renewed every three to five years, the compensation terms have never changed. Auditors also revealed that the prior RFPs to which Two Oceans Digital successfully replied were written in a way that was heavily preferential to the incumbent company.

“Due to the severity of the deficiencies in both the procurement process and the resulting contractual arrangement, we recommended that the TDC critically evaluate their arrangement with Two Oceans to determine whether it would be beneficial to either immediately cancel and re-bid this contract or consider other alternative solutions for website and digital services,” the audit states.

In the new RFP to be issued for website and digital services, Franker has asked bidders to, “Describe and provide examples of how the Pro-

At the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s®, we’re fighting for a different future. For families facing the disease today.

For more time. For treatments.

We’re closer than ever to stopping Alzheimer’s. But to get there, we need you. Join us for the world’s largest fundraiser to fight the disease.

Register today at act.alz.org/FloridaKeys

2024 Walk to End Alzheimer’s Florida Keys

Founders Park, Islamorada

Saturday, Dec. 14

Event opens 8 a.m. | Ceremony + Walk 9 a.m.

Photo by Jannette De LLanos Photography

NEW BUILDING & NEW VISIBILITY

Wesley House cuts the ribbon at Key Largo

1: Wesley House Family Services board members in front of the new building at 5 Homestead Ave. in Key Largo following a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Nov. 14. From left, Tony Scalera, associate board member; Lorie Leal, governing board member; Alica Calleja, past governing board member and Friend of Wesley House; Pamela Linder, treasurer; Julio Torrado, chair; Aleida Jacobo, CEO; Kristine Pabian, immediate past chair; and sheriff’s Capt. David Smith, secretary. 2: Wesley House Family Services’ new facility is located at the former Lions Club in Key Largo. 3: Deputies get a tour of the new building. 4: The conference room inside the new Wesley House facility. Photos by Jim McCarthy and Cindy Smith.

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Aleida Jacobo stood in front of the new Wesley House Family Services building holding a pair of large scissors. The anticipation was building as Jacobo, the CEO for Wesley House, prepared for a ceremonial ribboncutting on Nov. 14.

She was flanked by board members and staff. The lights shined bright on the group and the building behind in the nighttime. A sea of community supporters watched as the ribbon was cut on a new beginning.

Located at the former Lions Club at 5 Homestead Ave., Wesley House recently opened the new facility for the first time. Community members saw new offices, a large conference room and visitation areas for families. They were also treated to cocktails, appetizers and entertainment during an open house.

A nonprofit dedicated to children and families in the Florida Keys, Wesley House now has noticeable visibility in the community, and it’s something Jacobo has wanted for years.

Wesley House formerly operated across the street, at the bank building at MM 99.4. Jacobo said staff have worked at that location since 2005, but no one really knew they existed there, as there was no signage.

“Everybody told us we were the best-kept secret,” Jacobo said.

A majority of Wesley House staff members live either in the Upper Keys or on the mainland, leading them to outgrow their former Key Largo location. In 2022, Wesley House acquired the Lions Club building. It wasn’t on the market as Wesley House began the search for bigger space, but word on the street was the club would consider selling it.

“We don’t have the option to say, ‘We can’t help you today’ and ‘We don’t have enough staff.’ We have to figure it out and make it work. This building assists with that,” Jacobo said.

With its name stamped across the new building, Wesley House is a secret no more to those in Key Largo, Tavernier and Islamorada. Jacobo said she’s especially excited to bring a new space for the roughly 50 staff members who work in the Upper Keys. Wesley House, which also has an office in Key

West, offers services from child welfare and foster care to adoption and programs geared to support parenting and healthy living environments.

“I want (staff) to feel valued, and what they provide is an essential service. Even though we are not technically considered essential, we really are,” Jacobo said. “When the pandemic came, we still had to go to families’ homes and ensure people were OK. The Inez Martin Center in Key Wet stayed open during the pandemic so we could help first responders take care of their kids.”

Programs for expectant families and newborns in the Upper Keys have increased throughout the years, and so have family intervention/prevention services to families at risk of abuse and neglect. There’s also the Healthy Families Program, which provides young families with tools to promote child health and development, provide nurturing homes and ensure medical and social needs of families are met.

In the new building, two visitation rooms serve as safe environments for parents seeking to reunite with their children. Jacobo said Wesley House is charged with putting families back together, and it all starts with supervised visits. An observation room is nearby for staff to monitor the visitation.

“We have cameras observing so we let families interact normally and not have someone sitting in front of them,” she said. “Some cases are egregious and we have to be in the room, but the majority of the time we let families be with their children.”

The rooms feature toys and activities for the parent and child to enjoy. United Women in Faith members donated multicultural dolls to Wesley House as part of a Doll Project, a statewide program aiming to bring awareness to prejudice.

Outside, plans are in the works for an industrial-size playground for children and families for a normal encounter that’s not in a room.

Not only will the new facility be able to serve families in the Keys, but it will also give space for community organizations to meet in its large conference room.

“The community is so accepting of us and our mission, and it’s very wonderful to see,” Jacobo said. Jacobo said staff members are expected to begin working at the new facility in the next few weeks.

NEW COUNCIL ELECTS SHARON MAHONEY MAYOR

Members say ‘no’ to FDOT’s three proposed crosswalks

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

An Islamorada village council with two newcomers and three returning members convened for the first time on Nov. 19. At the Founders Park Community Center, a packed audience watched as Monroe County Judge Sharon Hamilton swore in each member.

It’s the first time Capt. Steve Friedman and Don Horton have served on the council following their victories on Election Night. Sharon Mahoney, who ran unopposed, and Buddy Pinder, who won his race, both returned from the previous council. Former mayor Deb Gillis, who also won on Election Night, is also back on the council after she termed out in 2020.

With each member sworn in, previous mayor Pinder nominated Mahoney as next village mayor. It was met with unanimous support among the council, which proceeded to vote 5-0. Pinder followed up by nominating Horton as vice mayor; that, too, was met with full support from the council.

Before the nominations were made, Pinder took a moment to reflect on his previous three years as mayor while thanking the Islamorada residents, fellow council members he served alongside and staff.

Upon taking her seat as mayor, Mahoney said she’s looking forward to the future with the new council.

Per village charter, council members serve two-year terms. On Nov. 5, a majority of village voters said “yes” to term limits for council members. Now, council members can serve up to eight cumulative years. Previously, council members could serve four consecutive twoyear terms, step away for a year or more and come back to run for office for potentially more terms in office.

Council, sheriff oppose proposed crosswalks

A request by one citizen for crosswalks led the Florida Depart-

ment of Transportation to investigate the feasibility of two near resorts and businesses and one near Founders Park. The idea, however, was met with opposition from council members and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.

Council members listened to FDOT’s Roman Sierra discuss potential for crosswalks to move pedestrians across a busy U.S. 1. He said a resident submitted a general request a few months ago for more crosswalks in the village. Sierra said FDOT typically follows up with the request by conducting a study and determining the feasibility. Out of it came proposals for three crosswalks near Blackwood Drive and Madeira Road at MM 82, near the U.S. Post Office at MM 82.7 and at the south entrance to Founders Park.

Sierra said they targeted these locations due to pedestrian activity, crashes involving pedestrians and the availability of crosswalks in the area.

“There’s no crosswalks in the area and pedestrian refuge in the median, another reason why it would make sense,” Sierra said.

FDOT uses two traffic control devices, one being a pedestrian highway beacon similar to the one at MM 100 that stays dark until someone pushes the button. Red lights flash to stop vehicles to allow the pedestrian to safely cross. Sierra said the beacon has brought “mixed results” in terms of its effectiveness.

There’s also the typical pedestrian signal like the one in front of Key Largo School, which flashes red, yellow and green.

A number of council members questioned the need for crosswalks FDOT proposed for the three locations.

“Part of the reason I’m not sure that I want any of them is that all of these will slow our traffic,” Gillis said. “That doesn’t mean I’m not concerned about people crossing the road and the safety of that.”

Above: The new village council includes, from left, Steve Friedman, Deb Gillis, Sharon Mahoney, Don Horton and Buddy Pinder. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly. Right: Sharon Mahoney was unanimously selected by the council to be mayor for the coming year.

Speaking to the council, Sheriff Rick Ramsay said the data over the last three years showed no crashes at the proposed locations for crosswalks. Ramsay said if there was a true public safety need for crosswalks, he would be all for it. He said they will only make issues worse.

“Crosswalks cause crashes. They don’t reduce them,” Ramsay said. “The chief of police in Key West, I spoke to him today. … They hate these crosswalks. What they found in the crosswalks that are north of Roosevelt Boulevard is a mass increase in crashes at these locations.

“If there was a true public safety need, I’d be the first person to say let’s do it. I think the contrary,”

Ramsay continued. “Crosswalks are going to be more problemsome for police, fire and rescue, congest traffic and make issues worse. I don’t think there’s a safety issue here that we’re trying to fix.”

Mahoney’s Enchanted Forest business is located near the proposed post office crosswalk. She said she’s been in business there for 27 years, and she’s seen no one crossing the street from that location.

“There is a problem going into the post office, but it’s a vehicle problem, not a pedestrian problem,” she said. “I think we’re all pretty much on the same page that we don’t see this as something that is urgent or needed.”

Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay attended the meeting to express his opposition to the Florida Department of Transportation’s proposal for three crosswalks in the village. Ramsay is pictured with fellow members of the sheriff’s office.

SCHOLL TAKES GAVEL AS MONROE COUNTY MAYOR

Commission considers widening Keys bridges, honors local leaders

MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

Compared to national politics these days, the Nov. 19 county commission meeting was downright jovial.

The commission chambers in Key West were packed at the start of the meeting, when commissioner Jim Scholl accepted the county mayor’s gavel from commissioner Holly Raschein. Scholl will serve as mayor for a year. The position is not an elected one, but rather rotates each year among the five lawmakers. The county mayor chairs the commission meetings and votes last as a tiebreaker on any contentious issues.

Scholl was reelected to the District 3 seat earlier this month, after Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed him in April 2022 to fill the vacancy following Eddie Martinez’s 2021 resignation amid personal and professional turmoil.

Scholl, Raschein and commissioner Craig Cates all were sworn back in to office at the meeting. Raschein handily won reelection in the Aug. 20 primary, as she faced no Democratic opponents, and Cates faced no challenger.

Once the gavel was passed, the commission honored the woman who has helped make all Florida Keys elections possible for the past 40 years, Joyce Griffin.

Each of the commissioners offered praise and gratitude to the retiring supervisor of elections, who has guided each of them through the labyrinth of election laws during their candidacies and ensured fair elections in Monroe County.

Another retiree with 40 years of public service, Dr. Mark Whiteside, received a proclamation honoring his decades of service to the Monroe County Health Department, where he also served as its medical director for the past 16 years. Whiteside worked at the forefront of the AIDS epidemic and contributed significant research to that virus, as well as dengue, Zika, flu and H1N1.

Finally, talk turned to the bridges that connect the Florida Keys communities. Commissioner David Rice suggested, and the others agreed, to begin discussions with the Florida Department of Transportation about widening certain bridges once the state begins replacing them over the next 15 to 30 years. Currently, the county’s comprehensive plan, which regulates development, prevents four-lane bridges. But the commission directed staff to begin the process of changing the comprehensive plan and starting discussions with FDOT.

“These projects take years to plan, so I think the time to start discussing this is now,” Rice said. “I don’t have an opinion from a traffic engineer, but if this could help us expedite traffic, then we might consider it.”

1. Incoming Monroe County Mayor Jim Scholl accepts the gavel from his predecessor, commissioner Holly Raschein, at the Nov. 19 county commission meeting. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

2. Monroe County Commissioner Michelle Lincoln and each of the other four commissioners had high praise for retiring Supervisor of Elections Joyce Griffin, with each lawmaker sharing stories of their appreciation of her guidance to local candidates.

3. The county commission issues a proclamation honoring retiring Supervisor of Elections Joyce Griffin, who was joined by several staff members and the commissioners.

4. Dr. Mark Whiteside is surrounded by family, patients, county commissioners and colleagues from the health department, where he has worked for 40 years until this month’s retirement, and been at the forefront of research on HIV/ AIDS, dengue, Zika, flu and H1N1.

BRIEFLY

Key Largo Bridge run is Dec. 7

Runners and walkers of all ages can compete in a scenic bridge race Saturday, Dec. 7. The 14th annual First State Bank Key Largo Bridge Run offers stunning land and water vistas and a physical challenge in the Keys’ typically balmy December conditions.

The timed 5k run/walk will start and end on the access road to Anchorage Resort and Yacht Club, just off the Jewfish Creek Bridge at MM 107.8. Runners and walkers will travel back and forth across the 65-foot-high bridge, considered the entryway to the Florida Keys, that is part of the Overseas Highway connecting mainland South Florida to Key Largo.

Participants can pick up race packets from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, at Key Largo’s First State Bank, MM 97.6. Packets will also be available at the starting line beginning at 6 a.m. the morning of the race. The race will start at 7:30 a.m. for both runners and walkers.

Registration is $60 per adult and $40 per person for those age 17 and under. Online registration is open at keylargobridgerun.com, and the first 500 registrants will receive a commemorative T-shirt.

Sheriff’s Office returns excess funds

Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay announced the sheriff’s office returned $4,061,250 that it did not spend in the last fiscal year to several Keys governments.

“I am committed to being a good steward of the taxpayer’s money,” said Sheriff Rick Ramsay. “We must spend every dollar wisely in addition to providing professional law enforcement services to Monroe County.”

Sheriff Ramsay announced that $3,554,390 will be returned to Monroe County, $82,555 will be returned to Islamorada, $122,978 to Marathon, and $301,327 to the Key West International Airport.

The sheriff’s office traditionally returns excess funds every year, which helps the county government and other public organizations reduce taxes for the next fiscal year.

Angler cited for illegal fish

A 43-year-old Miami man was given a mandatory notice to appear in court on Nov. 17 for harvesting an undersized yellowtail snapper.

Islamorada Marine Deputy Nelson Sanchez was patrolling near Whale Harbor Bridge at 12:24 p.m. when he saw Lester Roque Quintana in possession of an undersized yellowtail snapper.

For information on wildlife regulations go to www.myfwc.com.

Woman arrested over assault with vehicle

A 30-year-old New Port Richey woman was arrested on Nov. 13 after allegedly trying to hit a 32-yearold man with a vehicle during a domestic dispute. There were three juveniles in the woman’s vehicle at the time. No serious injuries were reported.

Alexandria Jade Santana was charged with aggravated assault, hitand-run, and child neglect.

The sheriff’s office was called to Shrimp Road on Stock Island at about 12:15 a.m. regarding a domestic dispute.

Santana tried to hit the victim with her vehicle several times. She also struck the victim’s work vehicle with her vehicle several times before leaving the scene. She was found shortly thereafter and taken to jail.

County investigator cites unlicensed paver

A Monroe County Building Department unlicensed contractor investigator recently cited an unlicensed asphalt paver and the business owner who hired the company. The asphalt company was from New Jersey. Fines could be up to $2,000 for the violations.

“The public needs to know that there are people out there who will try to do work like this, and it is not legal without the proper permits,” said Rick Griffin, Monroe County building official.

Monroe County requires all property owners or licensed contractors to pull a permit for things like

paving and asphalt. The property owner could also incur additional fines from Code Compliance for unpermitted improvements to the property.

If you feel you are being targeted by an unlicensed contractor in unincorporated Monroe County, call 305-289-2516 or email ThompsonLaChelle@MonroeCounty-FL.Gov.

Gas prices fluctuate in Florida

Florida gas prices dipped down to $3.02 per gallon last week, before bouncing back up 11 cents to $3.13 per gallon on Nov. 17

Despite last week’s fluctuations, Sunday’s state average was 2 cents more than what drivers paid a week ago. It’s also 3 cents more than what drivers paid this time last month, and 5 cents more than this time last year.

Oil prices dipped 5% last week. The closing price was $67.02 per barrel on Nov. 15. That’s a $3.36 per barrel decline from last week. Gasoline futures also dropped 6 cents per gallon last week. The discounts in the fuel market were reportedly driven by ongoing demand worries and a possible slowdown in U.S. interest rate cuts.

Master gardeners get state recognition

Monroe County master gardener volunteers Kitty Somerville, Susie Reutling, Sharon Thomas, Barbara Martinkosky and Karen Sunderland recently received the Award of Excellence at the Florida State Master Gardener conference held in Kissimmee. The award recognized the virtual help desk’s efforts in the county, in which the master gardeners assisted Monroe County residents with horticultural issues. They have created a blueprint for a virtual approach to assisting communities in widespread horticultural areas. The master gardeners competed against teams from much larger counties.

Sommerville was also recognized during the conference for her 15 years of dedicated volunteer service in Monroe County.

TALKING TRASH

New garbage carts set for delivery, start use in the new year

Unincorporated Monroe County and the cities of Marathon, Key Colony Beach and Layton will soon have new 96-gallon garbage carts delivered, with continued twiceweekly collection. The new carts are for garbage collection only. Regular cans will continue to be used for yard waste, and the blue carts for recycling.

Beginning this month, carts will be distributed to the residential/physical address on file with Monroe County for the Lower Keys (Stock Island to south of the Seven Mile Bridge) and beginning in December, for the Middle and Upper Keys.

While carts will be delivered throughout November and December, please do not start using the new carts until the week of Dec. 29.

Things to know

• Carts will be dropped off curbside. Please ensure you or someone else (e.g., neighbor, renter, property manager, friend) can move your cart up next to your home, garage, back door, etc. It is your responsibility as a homeowner to secure and take care of the cart. If you are unavailable, please arrange to secure your cart after delivery.

• Do not start using your cart

Keys residents will use rolling 96-gallon carts for trash collection in the new year. CONTRIBUTED

until the week beginning Dec. 29. After this date, 32-gallon cans/receptacles will no longer be an acceptable means for garbage collection, but should still be used for yard waste.

• Lids should always be latched to keep trash contained from animals and winds. Garbage should not be placed on top of the lid or on the ground. All garbage should be placed in a cart. Garbage not in the cart will not be picked up.

• After collection, the cart must be removed from the curbside and returned to the side yard, corner of the house, back yard, or under the house for proper storage.

• Residents are responsible for the replacement cost of lost, stolen or damaged carts.

• Residential communities (condominiums, cooperatives, apartment complexes, etc.) that receive Dumpster service will not be issued a 96-gallon cart. Residential communities should contact their local hauler with questions.

• If one 96-gallon cart is insufficient for your residence, you can contact your local hauler for additional cart(s) at an additional fee.

More information is available via email to solidwastehotline@monroecounty-fl.gov.

— Contributed

Master gardener volunteers Cheryl Solomon and Karen Sunderland.

‘SIGN, SIGN, EVERYWHERE A SIGN’

Election is over; take down campaign materials

The county elections office reminds all candidates that campaign signs must be removed within 30 days of the election. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

Joyce Griffin, Monroe County’s supervisor of elections, is telling all candidates, “Now that the election is over, it’s time to take those campaign signs down. I know this can be more difficult than it sounds because candidates often have friends, relatives and supporters hang signs for them in unknown places,” Griffin said, urging supporters to help their candidates find and remove their signs.

Campaign sign removal is the law:

106.1435 Usage and removal of political campaign advertisements.—

(1) Each candidate, whether for a federal, state, county, or district office, shall make a good faith effort to remove all of his or her political campaign advertisements within 30 days after:

(a) Withdrawal of his or her candidacy;

(b) Having been eliminated as a candidate; or

(c) Being elected to office. However, a candidate is not expected to remove those political campaign advertisements which are in the form of signs used by an outdoor advertising business as provided in chapter 479. The

provisions herein do not apply to political campaign advertisements placed on motor vehicles or to campaign messages designed to be worn by persons.

(2) If political campaign advertisements are not removed within the specified period, the political subdivision or governmental entity has the authority to remove such advertisements and may charge the candidate the actual cost for such removal. Funds collected for removing such advertisements shall be deposited to the general revenue of the political subdivision.

(3) Pursuant to chapter 479, no political campaign advertisements shall be erected, posted, painted, tacked, nailed, or otherwise displayed, placed, or located on or above any state or county road right-of-way.

(4) The officer before whom a candidate qualifies for office shall notify the candidate, in writing, of the provisions in this section.

(5) This provision does not preclude municipalities from imposing additional or more stringent requirements on the usage and removal of political campaign advertisements.

MAN DIES WHILE DIVING NEAR CHRIST OF THE ABYSS

A59-year-old man who was diving with a group near the Christ of the Abyss off Key Largo died after he reportedly lost consciousness.

According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Vitaliy Demchuk, of Germany, was diving with Amoray Dive Resort on the morning of Nov. 17 at the popular dive site, which contains a 9-foot-tall statue of Christ in roughly 25 feet of water off the coast. During the dive, Demchuk lost consciousness in the water. The crew immediately began CPR. He was transported to Mariners Hospital in Tavernier where he was pronounced dead later that morning. The sheriff’s office said foul play wasn’t a factor in the incident. An autopsy was pending.

— Keys Weekly staff report

TDC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

poser would handle managing a website advertising program in the community … and … describe and provide examples of how the Proposer would structure a revenue sharing model for website advertising.”

Change is scary

The TDC, with county commission approval, has initiated more changes in the past four months than were previously approved in more than four years, due to the scathing audits that criticized the TDC leadership as well as the county for a lack of oversight.

Franker’s predecessor, Stacey Mitchell, was fired in March as a result of the first audit last year. County commissioners have emphasized for the past several months that their duty is to earn back the public’s trust and fix what’s broken in Monroe County government.

Officials hired Franker, who is also an attorney, after a national search and thus far have given her free rein and a blank check to correct the problems identified by auditors.

When she started in September, Franker was candid in her critique of the TDC, but emphasized how shorthanded Stacey Mitchell was. The TDC for the Palm Beaches has a staff of 55, Franker said in September. Monroe County’s TDC has a staff of 13, and Mitchell was not permitted to hire additional

employees.

Franker has added three new executive-level positions — vice presidents of finance/accounting; communications/marketing and administration/legal, who will be a lawyer. Those will be in addition to a new chief financial officer (CFO), which the county commission had approved immediately after the audits.

But not everyone is comfortable with all the changes, especially given the unknowns with a potential new advertising agency with an unproven track record.

“We’ve known John Underwood and the guys at Tinsley forever, but now we could be working with strangers; it just scares me,” one TDC board member and business owner told the Key Weekly on the condition of anonymity to avoid animosity. “I know things have to change. Those contracts were terrible, they were so old. There’s just a lot going on, and it makes me nervous.”

County commissioner Michelle Lincoln at the Nov. 19 BOCC meeting acknowledged the opposing whisper campaign that has begun to target Franker.

“I just want to let you know that you have my complete support,” Lincoln said. “You came down here and you dove headfirst into the deep end, and now you’re finding there’s sharks in that water. I appreciate what you’re doing.”

You know we have great classic wood fired pizza and a killer happy hour. But did you know?...

•Wood Fired, Fresh-Cut Steaks

•Hand Rolled Meatballs & Marinara Made Daily

•Homemade Desserts

•Plenty of Veggie & Vegan Choices

•Artisan Cheeses & Meats

•Extensive Wine, Beer & Specialty Cocktails

•Weekly Changing Fun Specials

•A Top Notch Staff To Boot

THREE TIMES VOTED BEST PIZZA AND HAPPY HOUR!

FAMILY-THEMED MUSIC FROM MOVIES TO MARCHES

Special Guests the Sunshine Corvette Car Club

Key Largo Girl Scouts will present The Colors

Veterans recognized with music tribute and free American flags

Free Outdoor Band Concerts

Saturday • 4 p.m.

Nov. 30

ICE Amphitheater

Founders Park, Islamorada, MM 87, Bayside

Free Admission for All Concerts

Outdoors: Bring a Blanket or Lawn Chair

Fun-filled Family Entertainment

—New Band Members Welcome—

RACERS TAKE THEIR MARK ON THE OLD HIGHWAY

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Arun and walk in Islamorada returned for the first time in two years, as roughly 100 participants took off from the starting line at Coral Shores High School. Runners and walkers from the area — and as far as Palm City — raced and strolled up the Old Highway beneath the towering hammocks on Plantation Key. Islamorada’s Tony Pallaria, 39, came across the finish line first with a time of 20 minutes and 13 seconds. Tavernier resident Cameron Sabin, 33, finished second at 20 minutes and 21 seconds. Third-place finisher was Tavernier resident Ryan Jacobsen, 43, who had a time of 21 minutes. Jessica Hanley, 27, of Tavernier, was the top female runner at 21 minutes and 30 seconds. Hollywood resident Paula Villarraga finished second with a time of 21 minutes and 55 seconds, and third-place Tess Hill, 15, of Tavernier, reached the finish line at 26 minutes.

The run on the Old Highway was revived by HNO Productions owner and Key Largo resident Henry Menendez. The race was formerly organized by Baptist Health South Florida’s Mariners Hospital.

“It was a great turnout for the first year,” Menendez said. “I want to especially thank all participants and volunteers who came out, and we’re looking forward to year two of the Old Highway Run on Nov. 15, 2025.”

1: Scott Trago helps his daughter Elle Trago, 7, with her race number before the start of the Old Highway Run. 2: Runners take off from the starting line at Coral Shores High School. 3: Race organizer Henry Menendez heads for the finish. 4: Runner Claudia Stober sets out on the race course. 5: Men’s and overall first-place winner Tony Pallaria crosses the finish line.6: Young runners take

Jessica Hanley, first

overall top

from left, second place Cam Sabin, first place Tony Pallaria and third place Ryan Jacobson. Photos by DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

Revival Reef Fest

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22 • 5-9 PM BARN AT BUD N’ MARY’S MARINA 79851 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL RIDE THE MECHANICAL SHARK!

Join us for a free community event celebrating Mote's dedication to researching and preserving the Florida Keys reef tract and get a first hand look at Mote's resilience-focused restoration efforts!

LIVE MUSIC • FOOD TRUCKS • CORAL NURSERY TOURS • FLORIDA KEYS BREWING COMPANY BEER • JUNIOR CORAL SCIENTIST KIDS ZONE • MICROFRAGMENTATION WORKSHOPS

100,000 POUNDS OF MARINE DEBRIS AND COUNTING

Sanctuary Foundation celebrates milestone

The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation recently announced a milestone, with the removal of 100,000 pounds of marine debris from NOAA’s Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary through the Goal: Clean Seas Florida Keys program.

For scale, that’s more than the weight of: two humpback whales, three full-sized school buses or 50 Southernmost Point concrete buoys in Key West.

Established in 2018, Goal: Clean Seas Florida Keys is a community-led partnership among the sanctuary, the foundation and local dive operators to remove marine debris from the waters of the Keys and engage and educate the public about its role in marine debris prevention.

“Goal: Clean Seas is a tremendous partnership that we have with Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. I am beyond proud of the Blue Star Dive Operators and both the professional and recreational divers for accomplishing this monumental feat,” said Cortney Benson, marine debris removal stewardship coordinator at the foundation. “This work really makes a difference not only for the reefs and biodiversity under the water, but for the recreation economy of the Keys, which rely on thriving sanctuary ecosystems.”

The idea for Goal: Clean Seas Florida Keys came from the Keys community and with their stewardship the program has flourished, said Marlies Tumolo, team lead for education and outreach at the sanctuary.

“I am so proud of the work of our partners, Blue Star Diving Operators and the individual divers who have had huge conservation impacts in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.”

Goal: Clean Seas Florida Keys works with sanctuary-recognized Blue Star Diving Operators to educate both professional and recreational divers on best practices for removal of marine debris from protected waters; identify debris hotspots; remove, dispose of or recycle underwater debris; conduct post-removal data reporting and analy-

More than 1,200 pounds of debris was removed from the seafloor in the waters off Key West and transported to shore between the U.S. Army Green Berets, U.S. Coast Guard and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary in March 2021.

SCOTT ATWELL/NOAA

sis; and engage the public in marine debris awareness and prevention.

Over the past six years,18 participating dive shops have completed more than 1,500 Goal: Clean Seas Florida Keys dives funded through the foundation and permitted by NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, with nearly 8,000 recreational divers participating.

Marine debris threatens marine wildlife and sensitive habitats and can create safety and navigational hazards for recreation, tourism and fishing and pose risks to animals through ingestion or entanglement.

The most commonly removed debris items include fishing line, cloth rope, fishing sinkers, lures, hooks, wood/trap fragments, plastic and nylon rope, derelict fishing traps, fishing rods and poles, aluminum beverage cans, wire mesh and metal trap fragments.

Blue Star Diving Operators that have participated in the Goal: Clean Seas Florida Keys program include Amoray Dive Center, Captain’s Corner Dive Center, Captain Hook’s, Conch Republic Divers, The Dive Shop at Ocean Reef, DiveN2Life, Finz Dive Center, Florida Keys Dive Center, Forever Young Charter Company, Horizon Divers, Islamorada Dive Center, Island Ventures, Key Dives, Longtab Charters, Lost Reef Adventures, Pirates Cove Watersports, Quiescence Diving Services, Rainbow Reef Dive Center, Sail Fish Scuba, Sea Base (Boy Scouts of America), Sea Dwellers Dive Center, Silent World Dive Center and Southpoint Divers. — Contributed

CORTADITO PAYS TRIBUTE TO BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB

Performance rocks the stage at Florida Keys Brewing Co.

The band Cortadito performed a tribute to the Buena Vista Social Club at the Florida Keys Brewing Company last month. The Miami-based band’s sound is rooted in a Cuban country style of music known as Son (pronounced sown). The event was presented by Community Arts and Culture and in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council and the Morada Way Art & Cultural District. Since its origins 12 years ago, Cortadito has evolved into one of the torchbearers of a pop culture phenomenon that is two centuries strong.

— Keys Weekly staff report

The band Cortadito performs on the stage at the Florida Keys Brewing Co. beer garden. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

Your Keys to Local Luxury

At Engel & Völkers Florida Keys, we deliver personalized, white-glove service grounded in excellence, integrity, and local expertise. Whether buying, selling, or exploring the Florida Keys’ luxury real estate, our advisors offer tailored guidance to help you achieve your goals.

For real estate professionals, our supportive culture and global network create an environment where careers flourish. Discover how our commitment to service and worldwide reach set us apart—connect with your ideal advisor or explore joining our team today.

Learn more at floridakeys.evrealestate.com

& VÖLKERS ISLAMORADA

85998 Overseas Highway | Islamorada | FL 33036 (305) 587-3663

Overseas Highway | Marathon | FL 33050 (305) 587-3663

Stephany Duvall Broker/Owner Janet Hayes Shop Assistant Karly Church Shop Manager

Daniel Bowen Restaurant Enthusiast

Jeanne Hall Luxury property specialist

Judith Donnelly Boating Enthusiast

Katelyn Borup Rental Property Specialist

Laurie Keiling State Certified Real Estate Appriaser

Lesa Bonee Local School Specialist

Logan Spaulding Luxury property specialist

Mark & Laurie Gable Buyer Agent Specialists

Martha Carter Listing Specialist

Shy Martin 2024 Upper Keys Best Volunteer

Yoli Navamuel Certified Mortgage Lender

Saara Staten Key Colony Beach Specialist

DEPUTIES SLUG IT OUT FOR CHARITY

Softball game supports Keys History & Discovery Center

Members of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office donned a different uniform on Nov. 16. A softball game at the Founders Park baseball field pitted the correction deputies against road deputies for some friendly competition on the diamond — all to raise money for the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center in Islamorada. The road deputies came away with the victory over the corrections crew. The day also featured live entertainment, local craft vendors, face painting and other fun games. Local radio personality Dougie Hitchcock provided the play-by-play while Wood Campbell provided the sound equipment.

1: Correction deputies line up for the start of a charity softball game against their foes, the road deputies. 2: Road deputies cruised to victory over the correction officers. 3: Islamorada marine deputy Nelson Sanchez carries the colors to kick off the charity match. 4: Sheriff Rick Ramsay tosses the ceremonial first pitch. 5: Attendees enjoy a day of softball, food and fun at Founders Park baseball field. Proceeds support the Keys History & Discovery Center. 6: Lower Keys Lt. Donny Barrios drops the bat following a base hit. Photos by CINDY SMITH/Contributed

JIM McCARTHY

1: Lead bartender David Bendaham pours his signature Clover Cadet cocktail at the Armory Speakeasy at the Post. The drink is a play on the classic Clover Club made with his homemade raspberry syrup, gin, lemon and egg white. Bendaham spent many years working at fine dining establishments in Europe. CONTRIBUTED 2: VFW Post 10211 trustee John Donnelly enjoys a meal with friends. 3: With some help from her 18-month-old son, restaurant owner Janessa Silvestri cuts the ribbon during the grand opening ceremony of the Armory held on Friday, Nov. 8 ahead of Veteran’s Day. 4: Chef Frank Bozza has spent the last four months working closely with owner Janessa Silvestri to create a menu that will satisfy all palates. KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL/ Keys Weekly. 5: The menu items are designed as small plates for sharing, like this dish called Operation Olive. It includes Bozza’s signature marinated olives over seasoned Greek yogurt sauce with a toasted baguette for dipping. CONTRIBUTED

ARMORY AT THE POST OFFICIALLY OPENS

The elegant bar and dining room is dimly lit, the dapper staff is dressed all in black with red suspenders and bow ties, and the subtle music playing in the background is a throwback to a bygone era.

The attention to every detail inside the Armory Speakeasy at VFW Post 10211 is nothing short of impressive. It’s an establishment like no other in the Upper Keys and patrons are taking notice.

“I like the music and the atmosphere and I like the way they treat you,” said customer Diane McKinley.

“The speakeasy and the darkness, it makes you want to dress up a little bit more coming in here,” added lifelong Key Largo resident Carolyn Thomas. “It’s kind of like when you go out to Ocean Reef; it would make me feel like I’m in New York or somewhere.”

Thomas is a close friend of veteran John Donnelly, a trustee of VFW Post 10211 in Key Largo, and is thrilled with the new restaurant and bar located inside the post at MM 102.

“This partner has gone beyond our wildest dreams and expectations, not only in the tangible assets here but how they conduct themselves, how they forge relationships, their interest in veterans is beyond compare,” said Donnelly.

That “partner” is restaurant owner Janessa Silvestri. When she learned the lease at the VFW post was available, she jumped at the opportunity.

“I came in here and I met with John Donnelly and he stole my heart,” recalled Silvestri.

Almost immediately, she came up

with the speakeasy concept for the restaurant.

“I envisioned it all that night. I went home and I was like, the name is the Armory and it needs to be a speakeasy,” said Silvestri.

Silvestri enlisted the help of her builder father, JR Silvestri, to oversee the project featuring a significant cosmetic revamp. The major transformation in style, look and design took seven months to complete.

“I think she’s come up with a great idea; it is exactly her vision,” said JR Silvestri. He knows a thing or two about building restaurants, having built the Big Chill, Snooks and Skippers. But this place is noticeably different.

“We didn’t want a tiki hut, and we wanted something nice for the community to enjoy,” he added.

Diners will surely enjoy that attention to detail, right down to the soundproof ceiling tiles that help keep ambient noise to a minimum.

The decor is a tribute to veterans of foreign wars. Shell casings and pictures of servicemen and -women line the walls. There is even a cordonedoff missing-man table at the entrance, meant to remind patrons of the fallen, missing or imprisoned military personnel.

“I wanted to make sure that this was a place that the veterans were honored the way that I think they should. They’re out there risking their lives for us,” said Silvestri.

“We love it, we love it,” said VFW Post 10211 quartermaster Mark Birk. He calls the partnership a win/win for this VFW post, which six years ago had fallen on hard times and was at risk of being shut down.

“It’s the VFW but it’s open to the public so they can help us to keep funds going in and supporting the VFW,” added Birk. Monroe County State Attorney and veteran Dennis Ward is the commander of VFW Post 10211 and attended the grand opening.

But there is a lot more to the Armory Speakeasy than military decor. Silvestri believes diners will be impressed with its food. She studied culinary arts and has been working alongside chef Frank Bozza for the last four months, cultivating an international menu that promises to offer something for everyone’s palate.

“We have a worldwide menu,” said Bozza, who hails from Costa Rica but was working in Ohio before landing the job at the Armory. “We have a hummus, we have a ceviche, and our steak is a little bit of a French technique. We’re trying to give the best to our customers.”

During the grand-opening ribboncutting ceremony on Nov. 8, Silvestri held her 18-month-old son in her arms. She acknowledges she has a lot on her plate, but this new restaurateur would not have it any other way.

“I hear people say that Key West and Islamorada get all the fun, so I’m happy to bring something fun and different up here,” said Silvestri. “I just felt like there was something missing in the Keys, a place where we can dress up and have a more formal, sexier night out if we wanted to,” she added.

The Armory Speakeasy at the Post will be open from 4 p.m. to midnight and closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. It’s located at 102255 Overseas Highway in Key Largo.

Seta Family Foundation

Thomas

Victor Ballestas

Upper Keys Marine

Ocean Sotheby’s

Capt

Lourdes

Jack Niedbalski

The Synchro Sirens

STATE OF FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

NOTICE OF INTENT

The Department of Environmental Protection hereby provides Notice of Intent to Issue a permit for the proposed project, subject to the conditions specified in the draft permit and summarized below. The applicant, Florida Keys Resort Holdings, Peter Rosasco, President, 4000 Sombrero Boulevard, Marathon, Florida 33050 applied on January 20, 2023 for a permit to operate a Class V injection well system. The project is located at the Florida Keys Resort, 4000 Sombrero Boulevard, Marathon, Florida 33050, in Monroe County (File 0352748-002-UO/5O, WACS ID 103551).

The permittee will maintain or operate one non-hazardous Class V, Group 4, injection well (IW-1) originally built for the disposal of reverse osmosis (RO) concentrate from the Florida Keys Resort reverse osmosis plant. The RO plant produces fresh water for golf course irrigation. The maximum injection rate for IW-1 shall be 191 gallons per minute and the maximum injection volume for IW-1 shall be 0.275 million gallons per day. The injection well is constructed with an 8-inch diameter casing set to 62 feet below land surface (bls) with a cemented annulus and a total depth of 97 feet bls. The injection zone is a non-underground source of drinking water. The injection system is currently inoperable. An inspection is required prior to restarting the injection system.

The Department has permitting jurisdiction under Chapter 403 of the Florida Statutes (F.S.) and the rules adopted thereunder. The project is not exempt from permitting procedures. The Department has determined that an Underground Injection Control permit is required for the proposed work.

The Department will issue the permit unless a petition for an administrative hearing is timely filed under Sections 120.569 and 120.57, F.S., before the deadline for filing a petition. On the filing of a timely and sufficient petition, this action will not be final and effective until further order of the Department. Because the administrative hearing process is designed to formulate final agency action, the hearing process may result in a modification of the agency action or even denial of the application.

Petition for Administrative Hearing

A person whose substantial interests are affected by the Department’s action may petition for an administrative proceeding (hearing) under Sections 120.569 and 120.57, F.S. Pursuant to Rules 28-106.201 and 28-106.301, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), a petition for an administrative hearing must contain the following information:

The name and address of each agency affected and each agency’s file or identification number, if known;

The name, address, any e-mail address, any facsimile number, and telephone number of the petitioner, if the petitioner is not represented by an attorney or a qualified representative; the name, address, and telephone number of the petitioner’s representative, if any, which shall be the address for service purposes during the course of the proceeding; and an explanation of how the petitioner’s substantial interests will be affected by the agency determination;

a. A statement of when and how the petitioner received notice of the agency decision;

b. A statement of all disputed issues of material fact. If there are none, the petition must so indicate;

c. A concise statement of the ultimate facts alleged, including the specific facts that the petitioner contends warrant reversal or modification of the agency’s proposed action;

d. A statement of the specific rules or statutes that the petitioner contends require reversal or modification of the agency’s proposed action, including an explanation of how the alleged facts relate to the specific rules or statutes; and

e. A statement of the relief sought by the petitioner, stating precisely the action that the petitioner wishes the agency to take with respect to the agency’s proposed action.

The petition must be filed (received by the Clerk) in the Office of General Counsel of the Department at 3900 Commonwealth Boulevard, Mail Station 35, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3000, or via electronic correspondence at Agency_Clerk@FloridaDEP.gov A copy of the petition shall be mailed to the applicant at the address indicated above at the time of filing.

Time Period for Filing a Petition

In accordance with Rule 62-110.106(3), F.A.C., petitions for an administrative hearing by the applicant and persons entitled to written notice under Section 120.60(3), F.S., must be filed within 14 days of receipt of this written notice. Petitions filed by any persons other than the applicant, and other than those entitled to written notice under Section 120.60(3), F.S., must be filed within 14 days of publication of the notice or within 14 days of receipt of the written notice, whichever occurs first. The failure to file a petition within the appropriate time period shall constitute a waiver of that person's right to request an administrative determination (hearing) under Sections 120.569 and 120.57, F.S., or to intervene in this proceeding and participate as a party to it. Any subsequent intervention (in a proceeding initiated by another party) will be only at the discretion of the presiding officer upon the filing of a motion in compliance with Rule 28-106.205, F.A.C.

Extension of Time

Under Rule 62-110.106(4), F.A.C., a person whose substantial interests are affected by the Department’s action may also request an extension of time to file a petition for an administrative hearing. The Department may, for good cause shown, grant the request for an extension of time. Requests for extension of time must be filed with the Office of General Counsel of the Department at 3900 Commonwealth Boulevard, Mail Station 35, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3000, or via electronic correspondence at Agency_Clerk@FloridaDEP.gov, before the deadline for filing a petition for an administrative hearing. A timely request for extension of time shall toll the running of the time period for filing a petition until the request is acted upon.

Mediation

Mediation is not available in this proceeding.

The files associated with this order are available for public inspection during normal business hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except state holidays, at the Department of Environmental Protection, Southeast District, 3301 Gun Club Road, MSC 7210-1 West Palm Beach, Florida 33406, and at the Department of Environmental Protection, 2600 Blair Stone Road, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2400.

OPEN

MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATION, INC.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2024 AT 1:00 P.M.

FKEC TAVERNIER HEADQUARTERS, BOARD ROOM

MONROE COUNTY DEPLOYS FIRST ARTIFICIAL REEF IN NEW PROGRAM

Upcycled power poles used at site north of Key West

On Nov. 12, the Monroe County Artificial Reefs Department deployed 10 of 45 power poles at a new reef area about 16 nautical miles northeast of Key West in federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The power poles were received from two sources, including the Florida Keys Electric Co-op’s Sea Oats Beach project in Islamorada.

The remainder of the poles will be deployed to two additional distinct patch reefs in the same area when weather permits. Once the deployment is complete, coordinates will be provided to the public. More structures will be added to the site in the future to increase habitat complexity and space for marine life. The program is entirely funded through a grant from the state of Florida.

Artificial Reefs Director Hanna Koch has been working with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to prepare for this first deployment. It will provide structural habitat in an area where there otherwise is none to support marine life, and provide new fishing opportunities for locals and visitors.

“This deployment is the first in a long line of projects being developed to provide several ecosystem and economic-related services,” said Koch. “This is just the beginning; we plan to create networks of structures from shallow to deep waters on both the Atlantic and Gulf sides that will provide a variety of quality habi-

tat types to various marine species.”

In August 2023, Monroe County was awarded $10 million from the state to start an artificial reefs program in the Keys. In June 2024, the state awarded an additional $5 million for the program. Artificial reefs can help take pressure off local natural reefs.

Koch is developing the framework for the future of the artificial reefs program in the Keys and is collaborating with FWC and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. She’s also been having extensive discussions with local stakeholders and scientists to guide the development of projects. “Having the community’s input and involvement is crucial to a successful program,” said Koch.

Florida has more than 4,000 artificial reefs, and Monroe County recently joined the 37 coastal counties that already have an artificial reef program. In the Keys, 62 artificial reefs, including wrecks, were placed mainly between 1982 and 1989. The most recent artificial reef placed in Keys waters was the Vandenberg off Key West in 2009. Koch plans to apply a science-based approach to designing, deploying, and evaluating artificial reef materials in the Florida Keys and use an adaptive management strategy to improve material design, placement and configuration.

More information is at www.monroecounty-fl.gov/reefs.

Dr. Christopher Forsee, DMD is seamlessly taking the reins from the iconic “Barefoot Dentist,” Dr. Troxel, where the laid-back vibe extends even to the choice of footwear.

Dr. Forsee delivers personalized comprehensive dental care tailored to your needs. Whether it's routine maintenance or advanced procedures, trust Dr. Forsee to rejuvenate your smile with meticulous precision and compassionate care.

SERGIO

Sergio is a 1-year old handsome boxer mix weighing around 53 pounds. Sergio is still very much a puppy – a bit shy at first, but once he warms up to you he is very sweet, loves to cuddle, loves walks and running with his humans. He likes to play with water bottles and toys and enjoys napping on the couch from time to time. If you are interested in meeting him, please let us know by calling 305-4531315 or going to www.mprescues.org/application.

KAI VISITS STORY TIME AT ISLAMORADA LIBRARY

SAVE THE DATE

Thursday, Nov. 21

• Coastal tree mantle decor session from 2 to 4 p.m. at Key Largo library. Registration required and supplies provided.

• Quit Your Way smoking cessation with AHEC from noon to 1 p.m. at the Islamorada library.

• Adult Art Club from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at Islamorada library.

• Kids Art Club from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at Islamorada library.

• Morada Way Art Walk pre-party from 5 to 6 p.m. at the Hale Gallery, 81888 Overseas Highway, Unit 2, Islamorada.

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

Friday, Nov. 22

• Tech help from 2 to 5 p.m. at Islamorada library. Get help with laptops, tablets and e-reading devices. Drop in with your device for help or schedule a one-on-one session by calling 305-664-4645.

• Fiero Coding Club at 4 p.m. at Key Largo library. For ages 8 and up. Bring a device or use a library laptop.

A library card is required to sign up.

• Second annual Reef Revival Fest from 5 to 9 p.m. at the barn at Bud N’ Mary’s Marina, Islamorada.

Saturday, Nov. 23

• Fifteenth annual Light Up Key Largo from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Murray Nelson Government Center, Key Largo. The tree lighting will take place at 5:30 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 24

• Islamorada Moose Lodge presents the JOY Center Ukelele Group from 9 to 11 a.m. Breakfast will be served from 8 a.m. to noon.

Monday, Nov. 25

• Story Time with Ms. Chris from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Islamorada library. For children up to age 5.

Tuesday, Nov. 26

• Small business assistance from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Islamorada library. Reserve your time by emailing NHull@fiu.edu. Learn more at sbdc. fiu.edu.

HREEF THE FOX

Reef is a red fox that was saved from a fur farm. He now lives in Key Largo with his human, Nicole Navarro.

i friends! Reef the Fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” Last week, my buddy Kai the fox made a special trip to the Islamorada library for weekly story time. The little kiddos were beyond excited to meet a real fox, (who wouldn’t be?) and their parents had some amazing questions about what we do at Pawsitive Beginnings. Going out into the community to educate and inspire is such an important part of our mission. Compassion for animals starts at home and when we foxes get to be the spark for that compassion, we know we’re doing our job right. It’s a reminder that our stories — full of resilience and second chances — can make a difference.

Oh, and don’t worry if you

missed us. Kai will be back at the Islamorada library on Tuesday, Dec. 3 for a very special STEM presentation. (I hear it’s going to be all about how we foxes are more than just cute faces — we’re nature’s little scientists, too!)

There is a super fun event happening this Saturday, Nov. 23, starting at 4 p.m. Light Up Key Largo is back for another year of holiday magic and excitement. Head on out to the Murray Nelson Government Center in Key Largo for a family-friendly event hosted by the Key Largo Community Preservation. There will be train rides, a visit from Santa Claus, numerous vendors, delicious food, games and more. There’s no better way to kick off the holiday season than joining in for this free community event. Anywho, that’s all for this week. Stay up to date with all-things-fox by heading to our website at pawsitivebeginnings.org and follow the links to our various social media accounts where you can see cute photos and hear me scream on the daily. Until next time, Reef, over and out!

Kai the fox visits the Islamorada library for story time. CONTRIBUTED

PRESERVING STOCK ISLAND

Snails and garden faced pressures

Editor’s note: This is the second in a two-part series on Stock Island.

Once upon a time, the Stock Island Tree Snail was native to Key West and Stock Island. It is described as a sizable conical snail with a white and purple-brown striped shell.

The snail was listed as a threatened species in 1978. In 1983, about 200 snails were identified on Stock Island in the area of the botanical garden, golf course and neighboring properties. By 1986, only 50 to 100 snails were found. A 1991 survey identified 13 snails.

ated between 55 acres, which was at its largest, and its current size of 15.2 acres.

According to a CAP Assessment plan written by Walter S. Marder, the garden was developed by the Federal Relief Administration Agency in 1936. The same report quotes an article in the Key West Citizen dated Dec. 10, 1934: “First plants of the Key West Botanical Garden were placed in the ground this morning adjacent to the golf course where the garden is to be developed.”

The botanical garden came to fruition due to the Works Progress Administration (WPA), the same government agency that brought the Key West Aquarium to life. According to a Nov. 29, 1935 article in the Miami Herald: “Three separate works progress administration projects totaling $39,685.10 are making possible the development of the garden.”

According to the article, “she rooted the plants herself in her backyard and then transferred them to the Garden after they came above the ground.” The story additionally stated, “very shortly the city must consider taking over the Botanical Gardens, which are said to be a great tourist attraction and may be made self-liquidating.”

In the 1940s, the botanical garden was largely abandoned, with parts of it sold off to the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority to accommodate water storage tanks. Other sections were sold to build an emergency military hospital during WW II, and so the golf course could add nine holes. By 1961, only 11 acres remained of the 55 acres the garden had once occupied.

They were introduced into the Everglades and the Big Cypress National Preserve in the late 1980s, but by 1995, no snails could be found at those locations. According to the 2009 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s management plan for the snail, in hopes of circumventing the extinction of the Stock Island Tree Snail, “private hobbyists” collected snails and successfully introduced them to sites in the Lower and Upper Keys.

Like many species, habitat loss was the primary reason for their demise. On Stock Island, one of the big culprits was the development of a 137-acre golf course. A story printed in the Miami Herald on Feb. 9, 1923, addressed the idea of introducing the links: “It is known that many visitors, who stated that they would have stayed here the remainder of the season could they have played golf, have gone up to Miami or across the gulf to Havana to participate in the sport.”

The golf course has been a focal point of Stock Island for 100 years. Additional development of the island as a tourist destination came in the form of a botanical garden. Initially, six acres were set aside. Over the years, the size of the garden fluctu-

The Key West Botanical Garden’s grand opening was celebrated on Feb. 23, 1936. It would not be the last one. The following announcement was posted in the Miami News on Feb. 24, 1936: “The arrival of two Cuban gunboats at daylight today signaled the beginning of Key West’s ‘Le Samana Alegre,’ or the ‘Week of Joy,’ which will continue through the rest of the week. The official opening of this week of joy will take place this afternoon when the Key West Botanical Garden, a WPA project, will be formally opened to the public.”

It has not been smooth sailing for the botanical garden since. In a story printed in the Key West Citizen on Dec. 8, 1939: “Mayor Albury reported on the Botanical garden on Stock Island, calling attention to the fact that all WPA cooperation would be withdrawn January 1. Mrs. J.D. MacMuller, president of the Garden Club, and Mrs. Norberg Thompson appeared and all asked that something be done to either carry the project on under city responsibility or that the plants, estimated to be of considerable value, be preserved in some manner.”

In a follow-up story printed in the Key West Citizen on Dec. 20, 1939, Mrs. William Pheland was identified as the woman who headed the botanical garden when it was under the control of the WPA.

After the botanical garden was rehabilitated, a second grand opening occurred in 1961. Over the years, the garden once again became the victim of neglect. The Key West Garden Club assumed responsibility for it in 1972, and on April 12, 1987, a third grand opening was held at the garden.

The Key West Botanical Garden Society Inc. was formed in 1991 and took over the management of the garden. The modern look of the garden began to take shape in 2001-2002 when the visitor center and bathrooms were added. In 2005, an additional 4.2 acres were purchased. Today, the Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden occupies 15.2 acres.

The golf course and botanical garden were not the only attractions developed on the island. For years, it was the place to go for racing, too. The Stock Island Raceway and the Key West Kennel Club offered tracks for stock car and greyhound races. The island was also once home to two drivein theaters, which proved to be one too many. The short-lived Riviera Drive-In opened in 1957 but closed by 1961.

The longer-lived of the two, the Islander DriveIn, opened in 1952 and operated until the summer of 1984. For Jimmy Buffett fans, the drive-in lives on in his song “Grapefruit - Juicy Fruit.” It is where, back in the 1970s, he took a date, they had a few drinks and one thing led to another.

Stock Car races on Stock Island in the 1950s. WRIGHT LANGLEY COLLECTION/Contributed

Brad is a local historian, author, speaker and Honorary Conch who loves sharing the history of the Florida Keys.

FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI

GIVE THE GIFT OF NOURISHMENT

Support your local food bank this holiday season

is the University of Florida, IFAS Monroe County Extension coordinator BRYNN MOREY

As the holiday season approaches, the spirit of giving comes alive in our communities. While many of us are busy planning festive meals and gift exchanges, it’s important to remember those who may be struggling to put food on the table. I organize a monthly peanut butter drive through Monroe County and the University of Florida each year. Seeing how something as little as a few jars of peanut butter can help a struggling family has been amazing. This year, I challenge you to consider making a difference by donating to your local food bank.

Food banks are crucial in supporting individuals and families facing food insecurity. They provide essential resources to ensure that no one in our community goes hungry, especially during the holidays when the need is often greater. Your contribution of non-perishable food items, personal hygiene products or financial donations can significantly affect someone’s life.

Here are a few reasons to give back to your local food bank this holiday season:

• Every little bit helps: No donation is too small. Even a few cans of food can provide meals for families in need.

• Community impact: Your support helps local families, neighbors and friends fac-

ing difficult times. By giving, you are strengthening your community.

• Volunteering opportunities: Food banks often need volunteers in addition to donations. Consider volunteering to help sort and distribute food, which can be a rewarding experience.

• Inspire others: Your kindness can inspire others to join in and support the cause, creating a ripple effect of generosity.

Let’s come together this holiday season to ensure everyone has access to nutritious food. Here are local food bank locations where you can make a difference:

• St. Justin’s Martyr Church: 105500 Overseas Highway, Key Largo. Mondays 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

• Church of Nazarene: 100390 Overseas Highway, Key Largo. Mondays 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

• First Baptist Church of Key Largo: 99001 Overseas Highway, Key Largo. Wednesdays 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

• Burton Memorial United Methodist Church: 93001 Overseas Highway, Tavernier. Mondays and Wednesdays 9 a.m. to noon; Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5 to 7 p.m.

• First Baptist Church of Islamorada: 81201 Overseas Highway, Islamorada. Tuesdays, 10 to 11 a.m., 4:30 to 6 p.m.

• KAIR: 3010 Overseas Highway, Marathon. Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, 9 a.m. to noon; Tuesdays, noon to 3 p.m.; Wednesdays, 2 to 5 p.m.

• St. Peter Catholic Church: 31300 Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key. Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m. to noon

1: Donate or volunteer at your local food bank this holiday season to give back to our community. TYLER JONES/University of Florida IFAS 2: Contributions of non-perishable food items, hygiene products or financial donations help members in the community. CAT WOFFORD/University of Florida IFAS

• Big Coppitt First Baptist Church: 200 Avenue F, Big Coppitt Key. Thursdays, 2 to 6 p.m.

• FKOC Loaves and Fishes: 2221 Patterson Ave., Key West. Mondays and Fridays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• SOS Foundation: 5640 Maloney Ave., Key West. Mondays and Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

• Bahama Village Pantry: 111 Olivia St. Key West Monday to Friday, 1:30 to 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. SOS distributes fresh produce boxes Tuesdays, 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

As you celebrate with loved ones, take a moment to reflect on the many blessings in your life and consider sharing those blessings with others. Your generosity can light up someone’s holiday season and provide hope for a brighter future. Together, we can ensure everyone has a place at the table this holiday season.

HOME AND AWAY, YOU CAN FIND THESE GREAT TEAMS ONE THESE GREAT STATIONS

MCSO CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20

Proceeds support the museum and learning center, located on the property of the Islander Resort. The museum features exhibits on the rich pasts of people, places, legends and events that shaped the Florida Keys.

“Saturday was as much a ‘friendraiser’ as it was a ‘fundraiser,’” said Rich Russell, board chairman for the Florida Keys History & Discovery Foundation. “It was a perfect opportunity to bring more exposure to our community’s History and Discovery Center. The message that we want to consistently promote is that the center belongs to our community and we want it to be a constant source of pride for all.”

Detention deputy Al Delgado organized the inaugural Softball Slugfest. His wife, Cynthia, serves as the administrative coordinator at the Keys History & Discovery Center.

“I was picking her up for lunch in August, and they (the center staff) were talking about coming up with an idea to raise money. I don’t usually eavesdrop, but it

caught my attention because I love doing things, especially when children are involved,” Delgado said. “They’re looking to make it more kid-friendly. I’m the second oldest of nine, so I took it personally and thought of an idea.”

Delgado said he looks forward to year two of the slugfest between the road and corrections deputies.

“Everyone thought it was different, not in the sense it hasn’t been done before, but corrections and deputies never had this type of game,” Delgado said. “We (corrections deputies) are kind of the lost boys in the county; no one ever sees us because we’re in the building. This is the best way to get us out together for a friendly game all while supporting the community.”

Road deputies say they shellacked the corrections deputies in the inaugural Slugfest. But some corrections deputies say it wasn’t as bad as the road deputies suggest. Nonetheless, the corrections deputies will look for revenge in next year’s softball game.

Sgt. James Hager looks at the pitch as he prepares to swing the bat. CINDY SMITH/Contributed

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF

Southbound SR 5/US 1/Overseas Highway Detour

Southbound Travel Lane on SR 5/US 1/Overseas Highway Nighttime Closure. Detour to Card Sound Road: November 24 and November 25 Nightly road closures and detours will be implemented on SR 5/US 1/Overseas Highway from Jewfish Creek Bridge Mile Marker (MM) 108.4 to the Miami-Dade County Line (MM 112.8). The southbound travel lane will be closed nightly in Florida City from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Sunday, November 24 and Monday, November 25. During these road closures, southbound traffic will be detoured to Card Sound Road and tolls will be suspended. Truck drivers are reminded that Monroe County has posted new weight restrictions on Card Sound Road on the approach to Mosquito Creek and Tubby’s Creek Bridges. Please plan ahead.

Cierre Nocturno en Carril de Circulación en Dirección Rumbo Sur Sobre la Ruta SR 5/US 1/Overseas Highway. Desvío a Card Sound Road: 24 de noviembre y 25 de noviembre Se implementarán cierres de carreteras y desvíos nocturnos en SR 5/US 1/Overseas Highway desde la milla 108.4 del puente Jewfish Creek Bridge hasta la línea del condado de Miami-Dade (MM 112.8). El carril de circulación en dirección sur estará cerrado todas las noches en Florida City de 8 p.m. a 6 a.m. el domingo, 24 de noviembre y lunes, 25 de noviembre. Durante estos cierres de carreteras, el tráfico en dirección sur se desviará a Card Sound Road y se suspenderán los peajes. Se recuerda a los conductores de camiones que el condado de Monroe ha publicado nuevas restricciones de peso en Card Sound Road en el acceso a los puentes Mosquito Creek y Tubby's Creek. Por favor planifique con anticipación.

Liy vwayaj nan direksyon sid sou SR 5/US 1/Otowout Otowout lannwit Fèmen. Detou nan Card Sound Road: 24 novanm ak 25 novanm Fèmti wout ak detou chak swa yo pral aplike sou SR 5/US 1/Otowout Aletranje soti nan Jewfish Creek Bridge Mile Marker (MM) 108.4 rive nan Liy Konte Miami-Dade (MM 112.8). Liy vwayaj nan direksyon sid la pral fèmen chak swa nan Florida City apati 8 p.m. dimanch 24 novanm ak lendi 25 novanm. Pandan wout fèmen sa yo, trafik nan direksyon sid pral detounen nan Card Sound Road

kamyon yo Konte Monroe te afiche nouvo restriksyon sou pwa sou

Tanpri planifye davans.

TRY ’N’ FIND

Words that remind us of stained glass windows are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find: ARCH, ARTIST, CHEMISTRY, CHURCH, COLOR, FRAME, GLASS, GOTHIC, LEAD, LIGHT, LIME, MALLEABLE, METAL, PAINT, SAND, SODA, STAINED, STORY, WINDOW.

Founded

The Color of Light

Stained glass artists have been creating beautiful windows for many hundreds of years. This week, The Mini Page celebrates the season by learning more about the art you may enjoy as you attend holiday church services.

AN ANCIENT ART

The earliest examples that scientists have found of glass and lead cut into specific shapes date back 1,200 to 1,400 years.

Since that time, many styles of art have been seen in windows. But the process of creating stained glass has not changed much over the centuries.

The first windows with patterns of glass were set into wooden or plaster frames, but these frames limited the shapes the artist could use.

Later artists began to use a metal called lead (led) to hold the glass. It is malleable (MAL-ee-uhbul), or workable into different shapes.

TELLING A STORY

As Christianity spread and became more powerful between the fifth and 15th centuries, stained glass became a popular way to tell stories and honor important figures from the Bible and the church.

For religious leaders, stained glass images were more than just illustrations. They were symbols of faith. For example, the white light of the sun shining through colored glass was seen as God revealing himself to people.

The first words in the Old Testament of the Bible describe the heavens and the Earth. The third and fourth verses read: “And God said, Let

IT’S ALL ABOUT CHEMISTRY

Glass is made when sand, soda ash and a mineral called lime are heated to high temperatures. The mixture becomes a liquid, and as it cools, it becomes more and more stiff. Finally, it becomes a transparent solid: glass.

Colored glass is usually made by adding powdered metals to the glass while it is still liquid. Different metals result in different colors:

Yellow = Cadmium sulfide

Red = Gold chloride

Blue = Cobalt oxide

Purple = Manganese dioxide

Green = Chromic oxide

The artist may also paint details on the glass with brown or black paint. Thicker paint will make more solid lines; thinner paint can be brushed after drying to give a shading effect.

A small panel of stained glass from York Minster in England is believed to date back to about 1150. It is one of the oldest surviving pieces of stained glass in England.

RESOURCES

On the Web:

•bit.ly/MPwindows

•kids.kiddle.co/Stained_glass

At the library:

there be light; and there was light. And God saw the light, and it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness.”

People in the Middle Ages thought of light as being good and darkness as being bad or evil, so they wanted to bring light into their churches.

New research suggests that air pollution may contribute to more severe lightning storms, particularly in some urban areas. Scientists from James Madison University found that when polluted air is drawn into a cloud through updrafts, the particles become separated, creating a difference in electrical charges, which increases the potential for lightning. The researchers found that more lightning occurred downwind from cities, with urban pollution intensifying lightning that often triggered ground fires.

• “Stained Glass” by Aidan McRae Thomson

by Betty Debnam The Mini Page® © 2024 Andrews McMeel Syndication

Mini Fact: This stained glass window at Evreux Cathedral in Evreux, France, was made in the 16th century.

photo by Walwyn

The interior of St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City features the pointed arches and large stained glass windows typical of Gothic architecture. Building of this church began in 1858 and finished in 1878.

HOLIDAY MAGIC RETURNS TO KEY LARGO

Tree lighting, Santa Claus highlight numerous activities during Light Up Key Largo

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Key Largo’s Murray Nelson Government & Cultural Center will transform into a winter wonderland on Saturday, Nov. 23 for the 15th annual Light Up Key Largo.

Organized by the Key Largo Community Preservation Foundation, the event serves as the beginning to a slew of holiday festivities in the Upper Keys. With the return of Santa Claus and kids’ activities come changes to make for an even better experience.

The fun will begin at 4 p.m., as young attendees can witness and run through the fluffy snow generated by a snow machine. Stations will be set up for the tykes to decorate cookies, and train rides will take families around the grounds. A bounce house and slide will also be available for kids.

Santa Claus will again hear the kids’ wishes. The man in red will be located toward the front of the Murray Nelson Government Center at Santa’s Enchanted Forest. There, families will be able to snap photos while the kids read of their list of wants.

The night will be highlighted by the lighting of “Holly” the Christmas tree at 5:30 p.m, where hundreds will gather to count down to the tree’s illumination. Recently, 30 volunteers took time out of their schedules to fluff branches in prepa-

ration for the building of the 45-foot Christmas tree “Holly.” Elves from Wire Nuts Electric fixed some of Holly’s wiring, while the Florida Keys Electric Cooperative built the tree. Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys and Rain or Shine Movers also pitched in to help transport the tree to the Murray Nelson Government Center. Publix and the Catch also supported the effort.

The evening will also feature performances by Spotlight Dance Studio from 4 to 5:20 p.m. and after the tree lighting from 6:10 to 8 p.m. The Mangrove Swamp Band will return to perform a number of holiday tunes throughout the evening.

All children attending can take their choice of either a free hotdog or hamburger. Free hot cocoa will also be supplied by Cupacabana.

MEAT Eatery, Italian Food Company, Sandbar Donuts and Polar Ice will be on hand to supply food and treats.

Parking for Light Up Key Largo will be available at Key Largo School, located at MM 105, with free shuttle service provided.

Light Up Key Largo organizers are seeking volunteers to help make the evening a magical one for kids and their families. Those wishing to volunteer can contact Cari Sanders by texting to 305-399-2265 or emailing lightupkeylargo@gmail.com.

Fore more information, visit Light Up Key Largo on Facebook.

1: A child and dad enjoy the snow machine during last year’s Light Up Key Largo. The snow machine will return to this year’s event on Saturday, Nov. 23 at the Murray Nelson Government Center in Key Largo. 2: Santa and Mrs. Claus listen to the wishes of kids. 3: Young kids react to the lighting of the 45-foot Christmas tree ‘Holly’ during last year’s event. Photos by JAVIER EXPOSITO/filmjavier.com 1 2 3

Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.

What: “The Long Goodbye” (1973)

Why: Celebrate Noirvember with a neo-noir film that checks all the right boxes for established fans of the genre while being modern enough to entice novices. Elliott Gould’s hard-boiled performance is not only memorable but surprisingly funny in a wry, matter-of-fact way. That tone permeates the whole film as he’s the audience’s eyes for every single scene. He’s surrounded by a fascinating and colorful cast of lowlife characters, and the world created for them to play in is handled with skill by director Robert Altman. There’ve been many adaptations of Raymond Chandler’s works, but this remains one of the better ones.

Where: This film is available on Kanopy, the library’s streaming app.

How: You can browse and request DVDs online by logging in to your account at keyslibraries.org. To view our collection of streaming movies and TV, go to kanopy.com/keyslibraries and set up an account with your library card. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? info@keyslibraries.org.

Recommended by: Kelvin Cedeño, library assistant, Islamorada library.

See previous Reel Recs at keyslibraries.org/reel-recs.