December 19, 2024 “You
CHRISTMAS IN THE KEYS
Lighted parades & Santa visits highlight busy season | P. 14 + 18 A YEAR OF ENTERTAINMENT Pinfish brings fun and games | P. 16 STATE SURPRISES Will the Keys get more building permits? | P. 4
The turn key one
Experience this exquisitely renovated waterfront residence. This home epitomizes functional elegance, highlighted by contemporary coastal design. The terrace overlooking the canal offers peek-a-boo Gulf views and serves as excellent outdoor living space. Inside, you'll find impeccable updates, including quartz countertops, LVP flooring, recessed lighting, and Calacatta marble tiled showers. Ascend the interior staircase to the main living area upstairs where you will find your kitchen, living room, three bedrooms, one bonus office or guest room, and two full bathrooms. Step outside to the generous covered porch, where you can unwind and soak in captivating vistas of the canal and the picturesque bay beyond. The property offers 60 feet of protected concrete dockage, complete with a 20,000 lb. boat lift for swift boating access to the Atlantic or Gulf. Additionally, a versatile bonus flex space downstairs offers boundless opportunities to customize according to your lifestyle. This refined coastal retreat epitomizes luxury and convenience, inviting you to make it your own.
7.1M
89240 Overseas Hwy. Suite 2
Tavernier, FL 33070
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AAA predicts 7.1 million Floridians will travel 50 miles or more from home between Saturday, Dec. 21 and Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025. That’s 220,000 more travelers than the previous record high, set last year. Nationwide, AAA expects 3 million more travelers than last year. An estimated 119.3 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more.
Islamorada firefighter Michael Venezia and son, Chase, meet Santa during a visit on Bee Street on Plantation Key in Islamorada on Dec. 15. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
TALLAHASSEE OFFICIALS NOT IN FAVOR OF COUNTY’S REQUEST FOR MORE RESIDENTIAL BUILDING PERMITS
State wants some allocations to go to Islamorada and Marathon
State officials appear unwilling to give more residential building permits to Monroe County and municipalities in the Florida Keys until all remaining allocations are expended.
Not only that, Tallahassee is urging the county give some of their allocations to two local municipalities facing more of a need.
County officials expressed their displeasure with the state’s recent “bombshell” during a Dec. 11 meeting in Key Largo. They also say they aren’t in favor of giving out their allocations to other governments as it could open the county to liability.
A letter issued to top state officials in October acknowledged the county commission’s support to request 220 residential building permit allocations; 100 for the county and 40 each for Key West, Marathon and Islamorada. The additional permits for single-family homes wouldn’t affect the county’s 24-hour storm evacuation timeframe, per state models. The decision to award the 220 permits falls under the Administration Commission, which is chaired by Gov. Ron DeSantis and composed of his cabinet members.
“Our request was very specific to match the modeling they (the state) had already done to be able to say ‘Yes, per your model this shows 24 hours … no need to change the statute,’” county Planning Director Emily Schemper told commissioners during a presentation.
Before county commissioners convened for a Dec. 11 meeting, the state informed county staff they wouldn’t approve 220 units unless all the remaining allocations are doled out to applicants. Schemper told commissioners the state also wanted the county to give a portion of its remaining market rate allocations
to Marathon and Islamorada. Both municipalities only have a few allocations left to give out. Marathon has 53 applicants who could potentially request one of the 12 remaining allocations through administrative relief.
“Staff was very clear with them (the state) that they would not support something like this because of the long-term liability that the county has,” Schemper said. “We’ve been looking ahead, planning for this and have tried to be strategic.”
County staff recommended commissioners institute a moratorium on any new applications for a market rate residential building permit. They also recommended the county pause on awarding any more ROGO allocations.
Schemper said that would give the county time to process amendments that would stretch the county’s ROGO allocations, 108 market rate and 144 administrative relief, beyond 2026. The county would still be able to issue affordable housing and the early evacuation units to applicants.
Some commissioners, however, weren’t in favor of approving a moratorium during the Dec. 11 meeting.
“I’m not going to make a kneejerk decision on the future of Monroe County, even if those demands are coming from Tallahassee by people I’m convinced don’t understand the complexity of these issues,” said Commissioner David Rice.
Rice said even considering a moratorium next week is “too soon.”
“This is bizarre, folks,” he said.
Commissioner Holly Raschein also expressed her opposition to approving a moratorium during the meeting.
“I feel like there’s so many moving parts that we need a minute. And I think staff need a minute,” Raschein said.
Commissioners verbally agreed to at least review a proposed moratorium at the Dec. 19 meeting in Marathon.
Commissioner Michelle Lincoln said she gets “heartburn” when hearing the word “moratorium” and asked how many applicants could be affected by one. Schemper said there’s a ROGO application deadline coming up on Jan. 13, 2025. The county planning commission would then award the top 15 applications based on a points system. Those applicants would be able to pick up their permits in March or April.
Schemper said handing out building permits in February could be placed on hold, if commissioners wanted to institute a moratorium. Shillinger said the moratorium would set up a scheme that would protect the county in the “worst-case scenario” if Tallahassee doesn’t plan on giving the county more allocations.
“This is an ‘Oh, heck’ moment,” Monroe County Attorney Bob Shillinger said regarding the state’s recent comments.
INVITATION
Breitling & Blue Marlin Jewelry invite you to join us for the Annual Art Walk Town Event. Be part of the excitement and enjoy Breitling’s 140-anniversary festivities with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while exploring Breitling’s latest collection. You won’t want to miss this! TH
COUNCIL EXTENDS MORATORIUM ON NEW APPLICATIONS FOR RESIDENTIAL BUILDING PERMITS
Group kiboshes administrative relief pause following state concerns
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Amoratorium will extend six more months on any new applications seeking a residential building permit in Islamorada, following the council’s unanimous support of a resolution during a Dec. 12 meeting at the Founders Park Community Center.
Council members, however, verbally agreed not to proceed with a moratorium on applications for administrative relief, after a state agency in charge of reviewing the ordinance shared concerns with village planning staff.
In August, council members voted 5-0 on an ordinance to place a six-month pause on any new applications seeking administrative relief. Property owners who are seeking a building permit and submit an application into the village’s system, known as BPAS, can apply for administrative relief if they haven’t received a permit following four consecutive allocation award periods.
Then, council members can grant the administrative relief request and either give a building permit, offer to purchase the property at fair market value or suggest “other relief as may be necessary and appropriate.”
Jennifer DeBoisbriand, village planning director, said the ordinance was sent to FloridaCommerce for review. The stage agency told the village during an October phone call that they were ready to appeal the ordinance due to its noncompliance with the village’s comprehensive plan.
Speaking to council members, DeBoisbriand said she asked FloridaCommerce why a moratorium on applications for a market rate residential building permit was acceptable and not administrative relief. FloridaCommerce indicated it was due to the comprehensive plan governing market rate allocations, which states the village’s BPAS can award all building permits for new and non-residential construction, “unless otherwise exempted by ordinance.” Language governing administrative relief policy does not include language pertaining to being exempted by ordinance.
Vice Mayor Don Horton expressed his support for canning the proposed ordinance on a moratorium for administrative relief. He said applicants who spent the money to go through the review process have been stuck in limbo since the proposal was approved by a previous council.
Commissioner Craig Cates acknowledged support for a moratorium.
“What staff is recommending, I think, is very good, very important … get us past all this and let’s think this out very clearly,” Cates said. “They (the state) want to (know) how we’re going to use these ROGOs, how many do we need — not how many do we want — to get through this. It’s going to take some time to figure this out for the citizens of Monroe County.”
In November 2023, FloridaCommerce (formerly the Florida Department of Commerce) gave Monroe County a list of options for hurricane evacuation plans, all tied to the possibility of adding perhaps 3,550, or up to nearly 8,000, rate-of-growth-ordinance (ROGO) allocations to the Keys. FloridaCommerce sought input from the county, which then conducted a series of surveys to gather input from residents. Monroe County also began to inventory vacant parcels which could be developed into a single-family residence.
“I think we need to not have this moratorium and let these folks work their way through the system like they were told and at least seek relief through this council,” he said.
Councilman Buddy Pinder, who also supported kiboshing the moratorium, said applicants not only waited four years for an opportunity for a permit through administrative relief, but they also paid a $1,500 fee to begin the process.
“We (the village) told them what to do and they followed our guidelines and protocol,” he said.
Council members unanimously voted in favor of extending a moratorium on new applications for residential building permits for another six months. The moratorium was originally enacted in September 2023 following a previous council’s approval. It was extended again in early 2024. The moratorium was set to expire in February 2025.
Councilwoman Deb Gillis said the moratorium gives the village time to develop its comprehensive plan with the Able City East firm. The village is also waiting to see if the state will give the village more allocations. The village currently has 54 market rate applications in the queue.
“The comprehensive plan is well over six months and who knows on the allocations, depending on what path that goes on,” Gillis said.
“Over these months, staff and we have put in hundreds, if not thousands, of hours developing a package of information to help us make a responsible decision about future growth in Monroe County,” said Rice.
Along with a moratorium proposal, county commissioners will consider a resolution on Dec. 19 requesting additional residential building permits beyond the 220. It would require approval from state legislators to modify the statutes governing the Florida Keys as an Area of Critical State Concern.
“The most important thing is having our discussion next week and coming up with a proposal to go forward for the legislative session, whether we have confidence that we’ll be successful or not,” said Monroe County Mayor Jim Scholl. “That’s what we were asked to do. That’s what we’ve done and I think we should stick to it.”
Marathon passed a resolution on Dec. 10 requesting changes to the laws governing the Florida Keys as an Area of Critical State Concern to increase the required hurricane evacuation clearance time for permanent residents from 24 to 26 hours. Such a move would position the Keys for more rate residential building permits — potentially more than 3,550. At its Dec. 12 meeting, the Key West City Commission voted 4-3 for a resolution requesting the maximum amount of building permit allocations from the state based on 2023 hurricane evacuation clearance times. Islamorada voted 3-2 requesting an additional 200 building permits during its Dec. 10 meeting.
Welcoming boys & girls, age 3 to 14. Season runs Jan. 13 through April 26. Practices at Founders Park. Games on Saturdays. Equipment provided to all registered athletes.
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Specializing in fine jewelry, jewelry repair, and gi s, Fischer and Sons Jewelers carries a full Line of gold and silver jewelry, diamonds, gemstones and gi items. A special twist inside Fischer and Sons Jewelers are Gourmet Cupcakes made by Mona Carter Andrew's Wife. Custom designs and Jewelry repair services are done on the premises by Andrew Fischer. Fischer and sons Jewelers o ers porcelain gi items, scented Candles, houseware, nautical gi s, and unique art.
"The key to our long term success is simple," Andrew said, "Honesty, Integrity and fair pricing."
Find Andrew and Mona at the Key Largo location 102991 overseas Highway 305-247-6911 Or Andrew III in Homestead location 40 NW 14th street 305-245-8175 email: Andrew@andyfischerandsons.com
COMMUNITY TAKES STEPS TOWARD A CURE
Alzheimer’s Walk returns to Islamorada’s Founders Park
Acommunity dressed in purple strolled around Founders Park in Islamorada, raising awareness and funds during the second Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Dec. 14. Some walkers held a pinwheel to remember loved ones lost to the disease, while others held pinwheels in support of family members currently living with Alzheimer’s. Lissette Romero, the Florida Mortgage Lab owner, helped sponsor the second annual event. She said the walk not only supports groundbreaking research, but also enhances care and support for families navigating their way through the journey. Kara Biery, chair of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, said the walk remembers those who passed from the disease and supports those living with the disease. The walk also acknowledges caregivers aiding those living with dementia.
“We walk for more time for people like my dad that I’m hoping will have more time,” she said. “And ultimately, we’re walking for a cure. Remember, we’re getting closer and closer to a cure. We’re not there yet. We’re a small, tiny island but we can do big things together,” Biery said.
A total of $37,399 was raised — surpassing last year’s $33,000. Proceeds will go toward the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association in the community.
1: Participants cut a ribbon during the second annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s at Founders Park in Islamorada on Dec. 14. 2: Dressed in purple, participants walk to the front of Founders Park. 3: The word ‘hope’ serves as a backdrop as Walk to End Alzheimer’s participants hold pinwheels. 4: From left, Kara Biery, event chair, Robert Glassmer, Miami’s Best Blinds owner and walk sponsor, and Lissette Romero, the Florida Mortgage Lab owner and sponsor, speak during the opening ceremonies. 5: An inflatable sign sits next to the stage during opening ceremonies. 6: Walkers hold their pinwheels high to remember those who died from the disease and support those living with Alzheimer’s. 7: Local singer Bob Spencer gets the crowd moving as he sings Bruno Mars’ ‘Uptown Funk.’ Photos by JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly
DECEMBER 13-28
ICE SKATING, VISITS WITH SANTA, RIDES, LIGHT DISPLAYS, GAMES, LIVE ENTERTAINMENT, KIDS CRAFTS AND MORE!
COFFEE BUTLER AMPHITHEATER
RESTORATION BLUEPRINT NEARS THE FINISH LINE
Overhaul of sanctuary regulations in final review stages – with questions still to answer
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
With the release of an environmental impact statement and management plan reflecting the highly-anticipated Restoration Blueprint for the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (FKNMS), the Florida Keys are just months away from a comprehensive revision of the rules protecting the island chain’s delicate waters.
Made available to the public on the morning of Dec. 13, the document marks the culmination of more than a decade of work by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) staff and stakeholder partners, beginning in 2011 with a troubling condition report signaling the decline of several elements throughout the sanctuary. Robust public comment periods with more than 80,000 submissions throughout 2019 and 2022, followed by a review period by a litany of enforcement, management and advisory agencies, have led to the final rule set to be published in mid-January. From there, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis will have 45 days to review the proposed regulations with, as former Sanctuary Superintendent Sarah Fangman put it, “a sledgehammer or scalpel,” deciding whether to accept or reject them in full, or veto individual items affecting state waters.
A presentation from FKNMS policy analyst Beth Dieveney to the virtually-gathered FKNMS Sanctuary Advisory Council (SAC) on Dec. 13 outlined major talking points of the final rule, including a plan to expand sanctuary boundaries by roughly 20% – primarily extending the area’s Atlantic edge and pushing south and west beyond the Dry Tortugas.
A sanctuary expansion to include Pulley Ridge, considered in the most recent Restoration Blue-
print draft in order to implement a no-anchor area, is not a component of the final rule, as the no-anchor provision was already implemented by the International Maritime Organization in June 2023, Dieveney said.
Recent crises demanding rapid responses, such as the 2023 heat wave that triggered mass coral bleaching throughout the Keys, have shaped updated emergency regulation procedures, allowing temporary regulations in designated categories to remain in place for 180 days with an additional 186-day extension.
Cruise ships will be prohibited from all discharges other than cooling water within sanctuary boundaries, and attracting or feeding fish, including sharks, from boats or while diving, will be banned. Dieveney said sanctuary officials would “consider” grandfathering in existing eco-tour and fish-feeding operations, but that the rule won’t apply to traditional uses of chum and bait while fishing.
Boats entering Sanctuary Preservation Areas, restoration areas and conservation areas are prohibited from anchoring and will be required to use mooring buoys provided by NOAA after a twoyear planning and installation period, with special large-vessel buoys required for vessels from 65 to 100 feet.
Sanctuary Preservation Areas at French Reef off Key Largo and Rock Key off Key West will be eliminated, while two new zones will protect patch reefs at Turtle Rocks in the Upper Keys and Turtle Shoals in the Middle Keys. Zones at Key Largo Dry Rocks and Grecian Rocks will be combined, while zones at Carysfort Reef, Alligator Reef and Sombrero Key will have their boundaries modified to protect reef habitats. Fifteen Wildlife Management
Areas (WMAs), established to protect nearshore habitats and specific species, will undergo sizing or regulatory changes, some with reductions to provide greater access following public comment, and 20 new WMAs will be added.
Exceptions for catch-and-release fishing inside SPAs will be eliminated, and sanctuary officials will stop issuing bait fish permits over the next three years, Dieveney said.
The final rule will also include designated habitat restoration areas undergoing active coral restoration, protected by a 200-yard buffer, and 11 designated coral nursery restoration areas to protect underwater nursery structures and their corals.
The full complement of mooring buoys is in use on a clear day at Sombrero Key Sanctuary Preservation Area (SPA) off Marathon. Restoration Blueprint will require use of a mooring buoy in all SPAs. DANIEL EIDSMOE/ Contributed
FESTIVE BOATS PARADE IN KEY LARGO
LRoughly 20 boats take part in the annual Key Largo Boat Parade on Blackwater Sound on Dec. 14. A fireworks display sponsored by Plantation Boat Mart concluded the event. CINDY SMITH/ Contributed
arge and small vessels paraded past several bayside restaurants as packed crowds watched during the annual Key Largo Boat Parade on Dec. 14. Organized by the Key Largo Sunset Rotary Club, some 20 boats were decorated to the theme of Christmas in the Keys. The boats proceeded up Blackwater Sound in Key Largo as a fireworks display brightened the sky. The fireworks were sponsored by Plantation Boat Mart. The boat parade serves as a fundraiser for the local Rotary Club’s various missions in the community.
KIDS’ WISHES WILL BE FULFILLED THIS CHRISTMAS
Local toy drive collects 500-plus gifts
Lt. Erica Oliveira carries fishing rods, a basketball and a bag of toys into the Founders Park Community Center, as part of a local drive to fulfill the wishes of Keys’ kids this Christmas. CONTRIBUTED
Islamorada Fire Chief Terry Abel stands next to Mayor Sharon Mahoney, right, as they and fire rescuers go through toys at the Founders Park Community Center on Dec. 16.
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Hundreds of kids in the Upper Keys will wake up to find presents beneath the tree this Christmas, thanks to a community toy drive spearheaded by Islamorada Fire Rescue and village Mayor Sharon Mahoney.
LIGHTED RIDES TAKE TO THE UPPER KEYS
Lighted bicycles and golf carts rode through Key Largo neighborhoods and to the 45-foot “Holly” the Christmas tree on Dec. 13. As part of the annual Lighted Bike Ride, more than 150 participants pedaled and drove north from the Mortgage Lab. They were guided by sheriff’s deputies as they crossed U.S. 1 and went back south to the Murray Nelson Government Center for photo opportunities with “Holly.” Before the ride, participants were treated to some hot chocolate and goodies courtesy of the Juice House. Santa also made an appearance. Proceeds support gifts for local children. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly
On Dec. 16, Mahoney and fire rescuers went through the bags of toys restaurants and businesses in the village collected in recent weeks. There were also special toy collections during Holiday Fest on Dec. 6, at Mahoney’s florist shop on Dec. 7 and during Santa’s stops through Islamorada on Dec. 15.
“We spent Monday going through hundreds and hundreds of toys. Seven members from our fire department showed up to help sort and stack the toys,” Mahoney said.“I couldn’t believe how this community came through. It was overwhelming. (Fire Chief) Terry (Abel) and I were grinning ear to ear when we got done.”
A community of leaders, businesses and residents recently took
the reins to a toy drive that was formerly headed by GySgt. Lou “Gunny” Slagle as part of the U.S. Marine Corps Florida Keys Toys for Tots. Slagle told Keys Weekly in a recent phone interview that a lack of support staff brought an end to the local Toys for Tots drive this year. The local community sprang into action with Mahoney and Abel taking control of the sleigh. Boxes were distributed at a number of businesses in the village, including Mahoney’s Enchanted Forest shop at MM 82.8.
In addition to the toys collected, 15 bikes were purchased to fulfill the wishes of Keys’ kids.
“I know what a thrill it is to get a bike on Christmas morning,” Mahoney said.
Gifts collected during the threeweek drive were distributed to local day cares, churches, the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter and schools. Mahoney said they even gave hundreds of toys to help fulfill the wishes of kids in Key Largo.
“I’ve gotten texts and calls from teachers and social workers saying ‘You have made these kids’ Christmases,’” Mahoney said.
MAXIMIZING FUN — RAIN OR SHINE
More than a year in, Pinfish appeals to the kid in everyone
MELINDA VAN FLEET
www.keysweekly.com
“One of my favorite things is to watch the adults, without kids, come over and see their faces light up when they get a prize,” said Pinfish Entertainment Center owner Matt Struhs. “And the little ones are a riot; they are shopping like it’s their life savings as they are redeeming their prizes. And my youngest son enjoys handing out the prizes, too.”
Located in Tavernier in the Winn Dixie shopping plaza at MM 91.2, Pinfish recently celebrated its one-year anniversary and its second consecutive year winning an award during this year’s Best of Upper Keys — Best Place to Take the Kids. Pinfish has hosted 150 private events — from birthday parties, celebrations, field trips and Christmas parties.
“We’ve had a really good welcoming from the community and are excited for how it’s gone this first year,” Struhs said.
Struhs recently retired from the Navy after 20 years of service. He and his wife, April Struhs, settled in the Keys in 2018 after he was stationed in Homestead. They have two young sons and wanted to be part of the community. They also wanted to open a business together that was a service to the community and offer something that was missing.
Pinfish covers the spectrum from entertainment, bonding and strengthening relationships while maximizing fun. And if there is a rainstorm on a holiday weekend, they will be at capacity really fast.
Struhs also worked with his dad, Mark Struhs, who has over 40 years of experience in global sales on the arcade side of the business.
“It’s been a lot of fun working together. We fused our combination of experiences together and this is the result,” he said.
He credits their staff – Grace Barrett, general manager, and Virginia Indell, assistant manager –with allowing him and his wife to be the CFOs. He adds, “It’s a fun place to work. We have open communication on what works and what doesn’t, and how can we be contagious with that fun?”
Resiliency, adeptness, never being stagnant and team cohesion are part of Struhs’s work ethic, which parlays into not only the next-level technology infused within Pinfish but also adapting to what the customers are responding to.
They recently added two more Duckpin bowling lanes, totaling six (up to six players per lane), and downsized the axe throwing to one lane. The bowling lanes are ADA and handicap accessible, and anyone can play.
While traditional bowling is a universally known game, the difference with duckpin is the 10 pins are a bit smaller, the ball is smaller and handheld versus putting your fingers through holes, and the lanes are shorter.
In addition to the artwork above the lanes and on the tables by local artist Roberto “Pasta” Pantaleo, which adds to the Keys ambience, the technology adds themes and avatars to the score screens.
“This technology is bowling’s response to modernization. A way to augment traditional bowling with gamification and personalization,” Struhs said.
Some of the different theme options are Classic, Sports, Fairy Tales, Disco, Build a Monster, Bubblegum, Oceano, and Professional Bowling Association. People can screenshot their faces and create their own avatar on the screen. If you do well and score, you will be shown as a happy character, but if you roll a gutterball, well …
“We anchor a lot of our events around the bowling, and we do online reservations in addition to bowling leagues and walk-ins,” Struhs said. “We’ve had four seasons already of adult-only
bowling leagues — part of a seven-week competition. Last season, we had 18 teams. It’s not really hardcore but serious enough to have fun and not intimidating. People make custom shirts and create custom high fives, and at the end, we have an awards ceremony and bowl-off.”
The arcade is also a big draw. There are a lot of options — immersive video simulators, such as “Fast and Furious” — and some arcade games have redemption tickets for prizes. Classics like Skee Ball have redemption, whereas Hoops FX, Air Hockey and Boxer Combo allow you to compete against a friend. There is even a popular photo booth.
Speaking of prizes, we cannot fail to mention the wall of plush toys, Chinese finger traps, finger puppets, Army and action figures, “Hello Kitty” merchandise, lava lamps, fun candy like Zotz and a lot more. One of the more popular big prizes are drones.
“If you just want to come in and partake in arcade games, we have added a self-serve kiosk that takes cash and credit cards. You can reload a card and save your tickets for the big prizes.” Struhs said.
Even though Struhs downsized the axethrowing section, it is still a popular activity. After a waiver, orientation, and some pointers to help you feel comfortable throwing the axe, players realize how exciting and fun it is and even relieve some stress and boost confidence.
The tap wall consists of a variety of 20 adult beverages and another feature that is the latest technology: a self-pour system. After the ID check, guests purchase a bracelet with a 40-ounce allotted, and the chip interacts with the tap. Guests can buy a 20-ounce credit after the 40-ounce has been consumed.
The charge-by-the-ounce concept is fun: You can create your own tasting. “It’s a good spread to accommodate most palates — wine, champagne, seltzer, cider beers and a variety of beer, including local options, Modelo and Stella. And what ends up happening is that it ends up becoming social, where people connect at the tap bar, as it drives conversation,” Struhs said.
Food options include delicious cheese or pepperoni flatbread pizza, a chips trio, giant pretzels on a stand with dips, and chicken bites.
Regular events are a consistent part of Pinfish’s ability to bring the fun: Wednesday, Ladies Night; Friday, Scuba Divers Discount Day; Little Minnow’s Saturday AM Bowling; and a monthly Paint & Sip with local artist Brittany Parker.
One such event is the upcoming New Year’s Eve balloon drop, which will be at 2 p.m. on Dec. 31.
“I wanted something fun and family-friendly. … I’ve ordered a lot of balloons,” Struhs said. “We are extremely thankful and appreciative of our local customer base and are always trying to think of how to stay fresh and relevant. We are willing to adapt, we are not going to stay idle and we will remain fun.”
Pinfish is open Monday through Thursday from 4 to 9 p.m., Friday from 4 to 10 p.m., Saturday from noon to 10 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 9 p.m.
More information is on Instagram and Facebook @pinfishentertainment and at www.pinfishentertainment.com.
Duckpin lanes at Pinfish Entertainment were recently expanded for a total of six. NADA JONES PHOTOGRAPHY/Contributed
Pinfish Entertainment’s tap wall is a self-pour system featuring 20 adult beverages.
Pinfish Entertainment owner Matt Struhs, right, with his father, Mark Struhs, who has more than 40 years of experience in global sales on the arcade side of the business.
BASH
CHRISTMAS ON LIGNUMVITAE KEY
Festivities, tours and history offered on an island off Islamorada
Attendees enjoy some arts and crafts during the Lignumvitae Christmas celebration on Dec. 7. CAROLYN DePAULA/Keys Weekly
CAROLYN DEPAULA www.keysweekly.com
Amid the plethora of sip-andshops, festivals and soirees, an out-of-the-way, yet nearby, peaceful holiday getaway beckons. Many of us rush to and fro, even in the Keys, at risk of forgetting our cherished holiday memories and the spirit of Christmas.
Local residents and visitors wishing to do something next year which takes you back in time, celebrates nature and offers fun for the whole family, get out on the water to partake in a Lignumvitae Christmas.
Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park is a hidden gem off Islamorada. Across from Indian Key and open only on special occasions, the island is one of the largest and with highest elevation in the entire Florida Keys. Lignumvitae was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1968. Once the abode of wealthy Miami chemist William Matheson, who built a windmill for electricity and used a cistern to collect rainwater, it now boasts a rare, virgin tropical hardwood hammock.
On Lignumvitae Christmas, which was Dec. 7, visitors took a ferry from Robbie’s Marina or rented a boat, jet ski or kayak from A1A Watersports and Boat Rentals or Florida Keys Boat Rentals, the latter which is also located at Robbie’s Marina.
Festival goers were treated to a feast for the eyes — a long dock over crystal-blue waters, framed by palm trees and lush native vegetation.
From the dock the space opened to a rare sight in Monroe County — a small hill gently rising to the left, a wide expanse of field all covered with native green, dotted here and there
with cannons sporting red holiday attire. Right in front is a limestone-covered home, central to the three-acre clearing.
The Mangrove Swamp Band with Santa hats performed holiday carols under a white tent. Visitors were offered hot dogs or hamburgers and chips with a friendly ho, ho, ho from Santa himself, and a complimentary cookie or two and had the chance to see how Friends of the Islamorada State Parks (FIASP) organization helps with the mission to preserve our local state parks. A founding member of FIASP conceived the idea for Lignumvitae Christmas more than 30 years ago. Climbing a steep set of stairs, one could see how the inhabitants of the house would have lived at the turn of the century, the 20th century that is, and marvel at the kitchen appliances and decor of the day. Smiling volunteers ushered people in, with a Christmas tree making it feel like the holidays in the historic home. In one room of the house, children were having fun decorating their own Christmas ornaments.
People stopped for iced water or refreshing limeade before embarking on the trail for a fun and educational tour with ranger Chris Herald. Two tours were available — 30 or 60 minutes — to explore this lush island forest. He explained how the island is 280 acres, considerably larger than most Keys. He spoke of the different trees and shrubs (65 species in this forest alone), their uses and especially the Lignum Vitae tree, “the long-life” tree, for which the island was named. The tour is a must, combining wildlife, nature exploration, tree/bird spotting and history.
After taking some Instagramworthy photos of purple butterflies, spiders, a mystery wall and stately, bendy trees, one could see old-fashioned games being played by young and old alike. Children played on the green and others took their picnic with them.
The experience was enhanced by Florida Keys historian Brad Bertelli, whose stories of the island, its artifacts and inhabitants were entertainment for the whole family. In a nearby booth, one could learn how to navigate the waters without the use of modern equipment.
LAST-MINUTE & ENVIRONMENTALLYFRIENDLY
These gifts are thoughtful and earth conscious
Christmas is a time for giving, but it can also be a season of waste. From excess packaging to single-use items, the environmental impact of holiday shopping can be significant.
If you’re looking for last-minute Christmas gifts that are ecofriendly, you’re in luck. There are plenty of sustainable options that are both thoughtful and earth-conscious. Whether you’re wrapping something up at the last moment or need a quick but meaningful gift, these ideas will not only impress the recipient but also help reduce your carbon footprint.
Reusable bottles or cups
One of the most eco-friendly gifts you can give is a high-quality, reusable water bottle or coffee cup. Many people use disposable cups or bottles, contributing to waste that can take hundreds of years to decompose. A stylish, durable bottle or cup made of stainless steel or bamboo is a gift that keeps on giving. During my recent travels, I noticed many people with stainless steel water bottles clipped to their bags at the airport. This is a great idea; you can fill your water bottle once you are past security and skip purchasing overpriced plastic water bottles at the airport.
Upcycled or handmade jewelry
Jewelry made from upcycled or repurposed materials is a perfect last-minute unique and sustainable gift. Many artisans specialize in creating stunning pieces using vintage or reclaimed materials like glass, wood or metal. Last week, I purchased some beautiful earrings, made from the spines of invasive lionfish, at the Sugarloaf craft fair. By choosing jewelry that is handmade or upcycled, you’re supporting small businesses and contributing to a circular economy. Local craft fairs, flea markets and artisan markets are great places to find one-of-a-kind items made with care and craftsmanship. You can easily find something for every style, from minimalist designs to bold statement pieces.
Native plants
For the person who has everything, why not give the gift of nature? Many plant nurseries located throughout the Keys offer native plant sales. Giving the gift of a native plant helps support our local ecosystem. You can make it extra special by placing it in a beautiful planter or wrapping a Christmas bow around the pot. It’s a meaningful, sustainable gift that has a long-lasting positive impact on our local Keys environment.
Zero-waste starter kits
A zero-waste starter kit is an excellent gift idea for anyone looking to reduce their environmental footprint. These kits typically include items like reusable shopping bags, beeswax wraps, bamboo cutlery and eco-friendly cleaning supplies. It’s a practical and thoughtful way to help someone begin their journey toward a more sustainable lifestyle.
is the University of Florida, IFAS Monroe County Extension coordinator.
BRYNN MOREY
Lionfish earrings from a Sugarloaf craft fair. CONTRIBUTED
COUNCIL APPROVES RESORT’S REQUEST FOR MORE HOTEL UNITS
Creekside Inn will become housing for Islander’s workforce
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Aresort in Islamorada is adding some 50 units, and its workforce is getting a new housing opportunity following the village council’s approval of several requests by the developer at a Dec. 12 meeting at the Founders Park Community Center.
Located at MM 82.1, oceanside, the Islander Resort requested a zoning change for its Creekside Inn property, 90611 Old Highway, from village center to neighborhood commercial. The request and subsequent approval via 3-2 vote will allow developers to transfer the 50 hotel/motel units at the Creekside Inn to the Islander Resort, which currently has 114 units on the property.
Developers would then turn the Creekside Inn, which they bought more than three years ago, into housing units for the resort’s workforce. Bart Smith, attorney on behalf of the applicant, said village code requires a minimum 500 square feet for each unit, which would equate to anywhere between 12 and 15 units.
Smith said the developers will secure early evacuation units for the workforce housing project, which would require employees to evacuate 48 hours before a storm. Smith said the units would likely be for managers and couples who work at the resort.
Council members voted 3-2 to approve the transfer of hotel/motel units to Islander Resort. A major conditional use request was also approved for the additional units.
Requests didn’t go without concerns from the community. Former Councilwoman Elizabeth Jolin lives in the neighborhood near the Islander property. Taking to the podium, she asked how the community benefited from the proposals.
“We talk about the need for workforce housing, but let’s be frank here,” she said. “This workforce housing is to accommodate
the expansion of a resort.”
Carroll Street resident and fishing guide Frank Ortiz said the project at Islander Resort will affect his neighborhood.
“You drive down by the water and you can look and it’s just building after building,” he said. “And the environment is really getting hurt from all of this. It needs some relief.”
Vice Mayor Don Horton, councilwoman Deb Gillis and councilman Buddy Pinder voted in favor of the requests. Horton said the council had to vote based on substantial evidence and testimony given and whether the request met code during the quasi-judicial hearing. He said he didn’t hear testimony that said the project wasn’t meeting the code.
“If I based it off feeling, I’d be instantly saying ‘no,’” he said. “But we’d instantly be appealed if we did that, because there’s been no competent and substantial evidence that has said that this is not what we’re supposed to do inside our code.”
Mayor Sharon Mahoney voted “no” along with councilman Steve Friedman. She asked the developers to come back with something better for all sides.
“I almost would like you guys to find more housing,” Mahoney said. “Fifteen units to me doesn’t do much.”
Friedman expressed concerns with another small mom-and-pop motel going away. He also stated his opposition to overdevelopment in reference to more hotel rooms on the Islander Resort property.
Smith told the council they will see “100% improvement at the Creekside Inn.” Developers must secure a certificate of occupancy for workforce housing units before they obtain a certificate of occupancy for the new rooms at Islander Resort, per contingencies in the village’s approved request.
A PAINFUL REMINDER
REEF 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.
Hi friends! Reef the Fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” I felt it was a good time to again share the horrors we foxes go through on fur farms for those who sell real fur coats and those who buy them. As a survivor of the fur trade myself, it’s a painful reminder of the countless foxes who were not as lucky as me — foxes who never had a chance at life beyond the cruel confines of fur farms.
For those who don’t know, fur farming is one of the darkest industries imaginable. Foxes like me are bred in captivity, never feeling the earth beneath their paws or the warmth of the sun on their fur. Instead, they spend their entire lives in filthy wire cages, barely larger than their own bodies. The wire floors cut into their feet, causing infections and open wounds. With no stimulation, many foxes develop repetitive behaviors like pacing or self-mutilation. Mothers are forced to give birth in these cages, their kits destined for
the same miserable existence — if they aren’t first mutilated or eaten alive by their emotionally damaged parents.
And then comes the end. To preserve the quality of our fur, fur farmers use killing methods that are as inhumane as they are horrifying. Foxes are electrocuted through their mouth and rectum or, in some cases, skinned alive. Yes, you read that correctly — skinned alive. The screams of foxes in these facilities are unforgettable and haunting, yet ignored by those who profit from their suffering.
I share this to help you understand the reality behind fur coats. Every fur coat represents 15 to 40 lives cut short in unimaginable pain. And while the fur trade disguises itself as “luxury,” it is built entirely on cruelty.
I know our community is better than this. I’ve seen compassion in so many of your hearts, especially for animals like me. Together, we can make a difference by saying no to fur and educating others about the truth.
Cruelty is never in fashion. Humans are the only species on earth that kill for vanity, turning beauty into suffering. True compassion and style go hand in hand — let’s choose kindness over cruelty.
Until next time, Reef, over and out.
An Arctic fox at a fur farm in Poland. ANDREW SKOWRON/We Animals Media
STUDENTS THRIVING IN STEM & CAREER TECHNICAL TRAINING
School board chair asks about bus cameras
FRANK DERFLER
www.keysweekly.com
Monroe County school board members were briefed on science technology engineering and mathematics (STEM) and career technical education (CTE) programs during a Dec. 10 meeting at Coral Shores High School.
Donna Tedesco, district STEM coordinator, described how the nonprofit Monroe County Education Foundation supports STEM programs and teachers in the district. One successful program is the NOAA Ocean Guardian Schools, which makes a commitment to the protection and conservation of its local watersheds, the world’s ocean, and special ocean areas, like national marine sanctuaries. Plantation Key School, Key Largo School, Treasure Village Montessori and Ocean Studies Charter School are NOAA Ocean Guardian Schools. This program has multiple partners, as diverse as the United Way and Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden. Activities such as planning, creating and maintaining rainwater filtration gardens involve students in all the elements of STEM.
Caroline Bleske, CTE coordinator for the district, detailed the many areas of study and certification at the district schools. Digital literacy courses start in fifth grade. Each area of study includes three or more classes and results in nationallyrecognized and specialized certifications. Students leave these programs qualified to enter technical jobs. The most common question from the public about these programs is, “Why is that program offered at that school, but not at my school?” The answers are simply teachers and space. It’s challenging to get people who can teach construction or marine mechanics to take time off from those jobs to work as a teacher. And there simply isn’t space at each school for all programs.
The district’s CTE program participation averages about 23% across the district. CTE classes are electives, so students opt into them. The number of enrolled students is up from 19% two years ago.
School bus cameras
Mindy Conn, board chair, asked the district staff if they looked into school bus cameras to discourage drivers from passing stopped buses. These cameras are controversial and school districts around the state are re-evaluating their installation and contracts.
Contractors for these systems typically keep a portion of the fines generated or get paid per reported infraction. Polk County school officials expressed concern that their contract for school bus cameras violates state law, per The Ledger. The Tampa Bay Times reported that the citations haven’t served as much of a deterrent. The costs for maintenance and licensing over the long course haven’t been developed.
Patrick Lefere, district executive director of operations and planning said, “Our outstanding law enforcement partners are watching school traffic very closely to ensure the safety of our students and staff. From the start of school in August through mid-November, the sheriff’s office has made 215 traffic stops and Key West Police have issued 111 citations in and around school zones and bus stops.”
The school board also viewed preliminary architectural plans for the renovation of Reynolds School in Key West. Founded in 1927, Reynolds School served as one of the first elementary schools in the Florida Keys and is included on the City of Key West historic registry. This renovation allows the district to vacate the administrative headquarters at Trumbo Point so that site can become affordable workforce housing. Through a public-private partnership, the district will develop 150 affordable housing units at its Trumbo Road property at no cost to taxpayers.
BRIEFLY
Man charged with fleeing police
A 34-year-old Urbandale, Iowa man was arrested on Dec. 16 for reportedly fleeing on U.S. 1 in the Upper Keys. Matthew Alan Price was charged with fleeing and eluding.
The sheriff’s office received a report at 3:53 p.m. of an armed and possibly suicidal person in a southbound Honda sedan at MM 118. There were no life-threatening injuries.
The sheriff’s office attempted to stop the car at MM 101 and continued to do so until the vehicle stopped near MM 86. The suspect vehicle’s tires were spiked by law enforcement.
No gun was located. The case began as a road rage incident on the Stretch, Price said. He was taken to jail. The Florida Highway Patrol assisted in the incident.
Memorial service for homeless neighbors
Rev. Pam Feeser will officiate at the annual Memorial Service for Upper Keys neighbors who died homeless in the past year on Saturday, Dec. 21 at noon at Old Settlers Park in Tavernier.
For more than 15 years, the community has gathered in an interfaith service to remember those men, women and children who have died homeless in the Upper Keys. The service includes a reading of the names of those to be memorialized followed by blessings, the Kaddish and placing of flowers in the water. The service is important because everyone deserves to have someone to say their name in bless-
LEIA
Leia is a sweet little lady with all her lady charms. She is 10 years old and full of life. Leia loves to take walks and naps. She will be your lap candy whenever you want. If you want a great companion that will always take your side of things, fill out an application at www.mprescues.org/application.
ing when they’ve passed.
“Dec. 21 is the longest night of the year,” Feeser said. “Many of us go to bed with worries on our minds, but we fall asleep pretty quickly because we have secure beds to sleep in. Those who live on the street, that’s not a luxury they enjoy, and they live with those worries all night long.”
The public is invited to the service. Those with a family member to be included may contact Feeser through Coral Isles Church at 305852-5813.
AAA: Gas prices slightly higher
Florida drivers are paying slightly more at the pump than a week ago. The state average on Dec. 15 was $3.12 per gallon. That’s 2 cents more than last week.
“Despite the modest uptick, gas prices remain within the same range they’ve been in since early September,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA - The Auto Club Group. “During the past three months, the state average has bounced between $2.99/gallon and $3.20/gallon. Oil prices have remained low during that time, which has prevented any significant jump at the pump.”
Last week, the state average started at $3.10 a gallon, then dropped down to $3.03 on Dec. 13, before rebounding to $3.12 a gallon on Dec. 15. So far, December gas prices have averaged $3.07 per gallon. That’s 2 cents less than the monthly average in November, and 4 cents less than the average price in October.
2024
IN A CONCH SHELL
Another year for the history books
And just like that, next week it’s Christmas. It’s the time of year when I reflect on what has and has not transpired over the last 12 months.
Usually, I wait until my final column of the year before considering the year’s events. I thought I’d get started a little early in case I have more to say than I think I do. It might turn out that I have less to say than I think, but that rarely proves to be the case. It is also the time of year to express gratitude and acknowledge those things that bring joy. I have an entire red velvet Santa sack full of reasons to be thankful. For starters, I’m grateful to have created a life where I can spend a lot of time writing, which is awesome because writing is my happy place. It is the one place and time when I know I am exactly where I’m supposed to be.
I’m thankful that I get to do what I love nearly every single day – thank you, Michelle Bertelli, for two decades of unconditional love and support for my obsession. I’m thankful, too, for spending the last 20 years, a third of my life, with you, you amazing, loving partner.
Now, last year, about this time, I wrote about some big things I was expecting to accomplish. A few of them never quite materialized. For one, I hoped to create a little popup museum. At some point in the future, it might still happen. The other big thing I thought would happen was the release of Volume 3 of my “Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli” book series. I came close with this one. The good news is that by the time the New Year rolls around, the manuscript will be out of my hands and off to my editor. How long that process will take depends on his schedule. However, a few weeks after its return, I’ll be blowing a conch shell to celebrate its release. Blowing a conch shell will be fitting, as I talk a lot about conch in the new book. “A Conch Tale” is one of the new chapters.
As every year tends to do, 2024 also came with a few surprises. The micro-burst (quasi-tornado) that blew through our neighborhood in July came as an unexpected, fiveminute surprise. We lost a bunch of trees,
and one fell on the patio roof. While we all could have done without that event, it again proved how much these island communities come together when big things happen. It is one of the reasons I’m thankful to have called the Florida Keys home for the last 23 years.
The biggest surprise, and probably the year’s highlight, was being invited to Ketchum, Idaho, to speak at the Community Library’s Ernest Hemingway Seminar. Not only was I asked to give the closing keynote, but I was also asked to talk about piracy, Prohibition, and rum-running in the Florida Keys. It was a fun talk, and I went well over my allotted 60-minute slot. It was a broad topic and I had a lot to say. While on the subject, I thought it would be criminal not to bring up the history of the rumrunner, the classic Florida Keys cocktail invented in the 1970s about 5.2 miles from where I am currently sitting.
In Volume 3, the invention of the rumrunner by a bartender named Tiki John at a little Windley Key resort called Holiday Isle appears in a chapter called “A Jimmy Buffett Tribute.” I’m excited about the new book. It’s a little longer, a little different and filled with what I think are some of my best stories yet — and heaps and gobs of local history. What is always exciting, especially these last few years, is watching how the path I’m wandering down continues to unfold. Each year, it has led to new and unexpected experiences. In 2024, a few of life’s bread crumbs
were left on said path, and they may lead to things I’ll be writing about and talking about in 2025. The thing about bread crumbs is that sometimes life’s ducks waddle along and gobble them up, and not because you did anything wrong or because you wandered off in some direction you weren’t meant to go, but because sometimes life’s ducks just waddle up and gobble them down.
There is one bread crumb in particular that I’m hoping doesn’t get gobbled up, passed and forgotten. Months and months ago, I was asked to add my historical two cents in a teaser/pilot filmed for a television show. My fingers are totally crossed that those damn ducks don’t get to that bread crumb before it is given the chance to reach its hopeful conclusion.
loves sharing the history of the Florida Keys.
I was right to start the last column of the year a week early. There is more I want to reflect on about 2024 and more I want to say about what looks to be an interesting year to come. In the meantime, I hope everyone is safe and merry, and looking forward to the festivities that are celebrated this time of year. I know I am.
Brad is a local historian, author, speaker and Honorary Conch who
FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI
BRAD BERTELLI/ Contributed
DASHING THROUGH THE SNOW — AND THREE CHRISTMAS WISHLISTS
serves as editor of the Upper Keys Weekly. An Islamorada resident, he believes in community reporting, giving back and life on the waters. JIM McCARTHY
My brothers and I always seemed to find our way onto Santa’s nice list despite all the fights, the rowdy play and the times our parents’ commands went in one ear and out the other.
As the snow began to fall and the Christmas countdown began, we tended to put those tussles and wrestling matches aside in hopes that the big man would fulfill all our wishes — and boy, did he ever.
I can still picture Christmas morning in the McCarthy household. My brothers and I would enter the living room before my parents woke up to see what kind of magic Santa left behind. Our eyes popped out of our heads seeing the stacks of presents, some from Santa and others from my mom and dad. The stockings overflowed with candy and trinkets. It was as if Santa and his elves spent all night turning the living room into a wonderland of presents.
“Gee, Santa really gets the job done,” I thought as I gazed at the pile of gifts.
Let’s rewind a bit to the early beginnings of the holiday season at the McCarthy household. Outside, the snow would begin to fly across Western New York. The Thanksgiving feast had come and gone, meaning the decorating was in full force with
almost every room decked in holiday cheer. It was all hands on deck. My dad set up the artificial tree and ensured the lights were working. My mom prepared the garland and everyone pitched in to hang the ornaments as tunes from Andy Williams, Bing Crosby, Burl Ives and Bobby Helms filled the air from the record player.
Beneath the tree, a Christmas village was bustling with activity. The stockings were hung on the chimney and window stickers plastered every pane of glass. A Santa figurine sat atop the chimney, checking his list again and again. My name didn’t appear on the list, leading me to wonder if he was actually perusing through all those naughty kids.
Like any kid, the anticipation for Christmas came when those catalogs full of toys and all the latest gadgets arrived in the mail. It always seemed like a competition as to who would grab the magazines; we would receive the infamous Sears Wishbook in addition to ones from Toys R’ Us and JCPenney. We all had different things we liked. I was always ready to circle the new Madden video game while my older brother had his sights set on guitars and CDs. My little brother sought Legos and video games.
With pens in hand, the circling and initialing began to give the big man in the red suit the wishes we wanted wrapped in a box on Christmas morning. We also circled toys and other things to give my mom an idea what to get us. With the lists in hand, the mad dash was on for my mom and dad as they hopped in the van, battled the snow and slushy roads and set out to fulfill the wishes like actor Arnold Schwarzenegger did in “Jingle All the Way.”
They’d practically spend Saturdays running here and there to find what we circled and wrote down on our lists. I can remember my mom and dad returning home following a long day. Before anything was unloaded, she came into the house and sent us to our rooms or elsewhere so she could bring in the bags and bags of gifts for my brothers and me.
With gifts towering all over the living room on Christmas morning, there was always a big box that served as the grand finale to all the gift unwrapping. One year, we unwrapped an ESPN Gamestation. It was everything we dreamed of and more with all-in-one basketball, football, baseball, hockey and golf. Another year, we unwrapped a pool table. The surprise and excitement that came from our faces on Christmas morning was something my mom and dad always enjoyed, even though they’d only slept for a few hours. My dad always had the camcorder ready to go to capture all the action.
The magic of Christmas morning is something my brothers will always remember and cherish. And it’s something we’re carrying forward to our own little families (my older brother has four kids and my household has two). As I deck the house in holiday cheer — and yes, I may have bought a few Christmas inflatables for the outside — I never forget the joy I had as a young kid during Christmas.
This year, our family of four will spend Christmas at our home in Islamorada. I will certainly miss the time spent with my family up north, and a little bit of white stuff on the ground that added a touch of magic to the special time. But thanks to FaceTime, we’ll unwrap the gifts as everyone in chilly Western New York looks on.
The sunny Florida Keys, early 1980s. Catch of the day: square groupers. A true paradise where every hour is happy-until it goes to pot. A snorkel trip delivers something unexpected—four bales of marijuana. It’s potentially a lucrative real . But it becomes a troubling . Co-written by two former Keys locals, spins you into a delightful web of hilarious mishaps and explosive sabotage as farcical events fly wildly out of control. If you’ve been to the Keys, you’ll find yourself laughing out loud. If you’ve never been there, you’ll find yourself wondering why. it to
1: The gift unwrapping begins. 2: My younger brother, Michael, and I pose in front of the tree. This was before we unwrapped some gifts. 3: Jim gets a new metal detector. 4: It wouldn’t be Christmas without some new Bills gear. 5: A new Night Copter. 6: My first CD player came with the Linkin Park album.
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
TRY ’N’ FIND
Words that remind us of winter reading are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find: BASKETBALL, BLETCHLEY, BOOKS, BREAK, COMMUNICATE, GRAPHIC, HIJAB, KIDS, LIBRARY, NOVEL, OJIBWE, QUIET, READING, REPORTER, SCIENTIST, SNUGGLE, WARM, WINTER.
Founded by Betty Debnam
Winter Reading Awaits!
Mini Fact: Audiobooks help readers develop language skills and focus. Try one out this winter break!
The winter break from school gives readers a chance to snuggle up with a good book. Find a quiet spot and a blanket, and dive into a story.
•With the U.S. presidential election just completed, the importance of journalism couldn’t be more clear. Author Hannah Holzer, an editor at the Sacramento Bee, guides readers who want to become journalists with “Kid Reporter Field Guide.”
•Max Brallier, author of “The Last Kids on Earth” books, has teamed up with illustrator Brian Churilla for “The Last Kids on Earth: The Graphic Novel.” Join Jack Sullivan as he and his friends try to get rid of Blarg the monster.
•Bletchley Park in England was home to code-breakers during World War II. In “The Bletchley Riddle,” authors Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin tell the story of Jacob and Lizzie, siblings whose mother has disappeared from the park. Can they crack the code to find her?
•Author Dawn Quigley of the Turtle Mountain Band of Ojibwe shares a story of Ariel and Tomah, who face personal and community challenges in their intertribal housing in the city. “Red Bird Danced” is powerfully written in verse.
• “Behind My Doors: The Story of the World’s Oldest Library” invites readers to explore Al-Qarawiyyin Library, founded in 859 A.D. in Fez, Morocco, by a Muslim woman. The story, by Hena Khan and illustrated by Nabila Adani, is told from the library’s perspective.
•Author Ann Clare LeZotte introduces readers to Effie, a deaf girl living with her older sister and their dad, in “Deer Run Home.” Effie’s life isn’t easy, as she struggles to communicate with her dad and others, but she discovers new “family” in her friends. The book is based on a true court case.
• “We Are Big Time” by Hena Khan is based on the true story of a girls’ basketball team in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Aliya, a Muslim girl, moves from Florida to Wisconsin and works with her team as they become more skilled — even as they run down the court wearing hijabs! Illustrated by Safiya Zerrougui.
•If you’ve ever felt like you just couldn’t do anything right, you’ll sympathize with the main character in the graphic novel “Mendel the Mess-Up” by Terry La Ban. But when Mendel gets a chance to be a hero, he takes it!
•All scientists were once kids. In “The Next Scientist: The Unexpected Beginnings and Unwritten Future of the World’s Great Scientists,” author Kate Messner makes the case that the scientists of the future might be sitting right next to you, eating at your dinner table — they might even include you!
An expanding population of invasive Indian house crows is ravaging wildlife and poultry farms in eastern Kenya. Introduced to the country in the late 1890s, the birds quickly adapted to their new environment and now number more than a million. “They are now predating (preying) on our indigenous species, targeting nests, eggs, chicks and even adult birds,” Kirao Lennox at the conservation group A Rocha Kenya said. Conservation groups have begun using a specific poison called starlicide to target the crows while minimizing harm to other species.
the library:
“The Lost Library” by Rebecca Stead and Wendy Mass
Christmas Eve Service with Holy Eucharist and Carols Tuesday, Dec. 24, 6 p.m.
Christmas Day with Holy Eucharist Wednesday, Dec. 25, 10 a.m
St. James the Fisherman Episcopal Church 87500 Overseas Hwy., Islamorada 305-852-8468
STAR-STUDDED
Athletes showed up & showed out in 2024 | Year in Review
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A YEAR OF GREATS
Keys athletes did not disappoint in 2024
It was a big year in Keys sports. Many things happened in the past 365 days, some evoking great joy and some devastating sorrow. Each year brings new and varied talent, and since January, athletes and coaches proved to be adept in a multitude of ways, setting records, earning titles and representing the Keys with pride. Here we look back at the 24 most memorable moments in Keys sports in 2024.
LADIES LIFT THE BAR
Girls weightlifting has been a bright spot in Keys sports since the first Monroe County program opened in Marathon less than a decade ago. In the 2015-2016 season, Fins coach Jessie Schubert took Rachel TorresBrown to states and brought home a silver medal. Each year since, the sport grows in numbers and the athletes stack on the plates, making for one of the most prolific sports in the Keys as far as hardware goes. Now, all three schools have girls weightlifting, and the popularity is on the rise. Last year, in addition to Marathon’s Justice Lee winning dual titles, Jennille Arias of Coral Shores won secondand sixth-place medals, and Ella Dunn and Sierra Earnhardt joined Lee as Dolphin podium members. Dunn won fifth place while Earnhardt won a bronze at states.
Jennille Arias. CONTRIBUTED
LEE BRINGS HOME STATE GOLD
Marathon strongwoman Justice Lee Isom set her goals high last year, then methodically did everything it took to reach them. As a sophomore, she went undefeated in her weight class in girls weightlifting, clinching double gold medals at districts and regionals, then topping her own bests at states to bring home dual gold medals at the FHSAA state championships. Though Coral Shores’ Julian Juvier did it in 2023, Lee is currently the only female Keys athlete to win two gold medals in a single season.
Senior Justice Lee shows off her hardware in her return to MHS.
ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
fled to the Keys from the frozen mountains of Pennsylvania hours after graduating from college and never looked back. She is a second-generation coach and educator, and has taught in the public school system for over 25 years. She and her husband met at a beginning teacher meeting in 1997 and have three children born and raised in Monroe County. In her free time, McDonald loves flea markets, historical fiction and long runs in the heat.
sean mcdonald
grew up in Miami and moved to the Keys in 1997. He has spent the last 25 years teaching physical education and coaching virtually every sport for Florida Keys kids ages 4 to 18. If you are reading this and live or lived in the Florida Keys, he has probably taught, coached, or coached against someone you know.
Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com
Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com
Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com
The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West. Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.
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CONCHS MAKE IT 15 STRAIGHT
Key West’s wrestling program continued its tradition of success by winning its 15th consecutive district championship. The Conchs crowned eight district champions and sent multiple wrestlers to the state meet. Senior Ralph Riche returned with a fifth-place medal, his second in two years. He will continue his wrestling career at St. Thomas University.
ON THE COVER
For small schools in a 100-mile island chain, Keys athletes made plenty of noise in the state’s upper echelon. Top: AJ Putetti. Second row, from left:
Dylan Ziels, Niks-Davis Suharevskis, Caylaa Makimaa. Third row: Anthony Lariz, Vance Bursa, Layne Smith, Brooke Mandozzi. Fourth row: Ralph Riche, Justice Lee, Ali Wheatley. Photos by Barry Gaukel, Doug Finger, Mark Hedden, Jim McCarthy and contributed images.
KEY WEST LOSES HOMETOWN HERO
One of the greatest losses of 2024 was the tragic death of Key West basketball coach Dexter Butler. Butler left a legacy as a player, teacher, coach and mentor on countless student athletes. His positivity and energy was infectious and he lived his life with the epitome of Conch Pride. Butler’s impact on the entire community was a positive one, and a scholarship was created in his name.
Top: Dexter Butler taught at Horace O’Bryant School and coached KWHS basketball. MONROE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT/Contributed) Bottom: Hundreds gather on March 3, 2024, for a candlelight vigil in memory of teacher and coach Dexter Butler. FLOYD JENKINS/contributed
tracy mcdonald
MARSHALL CROWNED SPEED KING; LEE OWNS THROWS
Marathon’s Mikail “Jay” Marshall broke the 100- and 200-meter school records at Marathon and beat all of his Monroe County competitors on the track in 2024. Teammates Fabbianho Louis Jeune and Mason Buxton broke the school records in triple jump and javelin, respectively. Mikkel Ross set a school record in the 3,200-meter run, and Cami Wrinn did the same in the 400 hurdles. In the field events, Daysi Williams cleared the bar for a new record in high jump and strongwoman Justice Lee dominated the throwing events. She set records in javelin, shot put and discus and brought home a fourth-place medal in shot put at the state meet.
CONCHS DAZZLE ON THE DIAMOND
Key West is synonymous with excellence on the diamond, and 2024 was no outlier. Five Conchs signed to play at the collegiate level: Anthony Lariz, University of Central Florida; Felix Ong, University of Florida; Jacob Burnham, Boston College; Hunter White, Inspiration Academy; and Steel Mientkiewicz, Georgia Highlands College. The Conchs fought to the regional semifinals after one of the toughest schedules in high school baseball in the country.
Left: The Key West Conchs earn their 15th straight district wrestling championship. Right: Ralph Riche, left, and coach Chaz Jimenez revel in Riche’s fifth-place medal at states. Photos contributed.
TRACK RECORDS FALL AT KEY WEST HIGH
Conchs broke records on the track and in field events in 2024. Grace Andrew set a record in the 400 hurdles for the Lady Conchs. On the boys side, Suharevskis Niks-Davis claimed a pair of school records – the first in 400 intermediate hurdles and the second in pole vault, in which he won a bronze medal at states. Jean Louis broke the shot put record by more than 3 feet, and Peyton Zubieta and Shane Lavallee both broke the record in javelin, with Zubieta’s longest toss taking over the No. 1 spot in the history books.
Grace Andrew. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly
Mikail ‘Jay’ Marshall. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly
Clockwise from top: Hunter White, Jacob Burnham, Felix Ong, Steel Mientkiewicz. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly
CORAL SHORES BASEBALL SENDS TWO TO THE NEXT LEVEL
The Hurricanes had a strong season on the diamond, winning 10 games, including an all-out pitching duel with Marathon. The team made it all the way to the FHSAA 3A District 16 semifinals. Two athletes, Zeke Myers and Grayden Ross, signed to continue their careers at the next level. Myers was recruited by Freed-Hardeman University and Ross signed his letter of intent with Columbia International University.
Zeke Myers & Grayden Ross. JOY SMITH/Keys Weekly
Key West’s competitive cheer squad earned a trip to states after a strong showing at regionals. CONTRIBUTED
KEYS’ ONLY COMPETITIVE CHEER SQUAD REPRESENTS AT STATES
Coach Ariana Corsi and the Key West competitive cheer team hit their moves at regionals to secure an at-large bid to the state championship meet in Lakeland. The Lady Conchs placed seventh in the small, non-tumbling division with a difficult performance they perfected throughout the season. Though all three public high schools have cheerleading squads, only Key West has an FHSAA-sanctioned competition team which goes head-to-head against other squads as they are judged in areas such as stunting, choreography and crowd appeal.
UPPER KEYS LEGEND UNRETIRES HIS WHISTLE
When Coral Shores found itself without a baseball coach last spring, it didn’t take long to find a perfect fit for the job. Tony Hammon has been a fixture in Upper Keys sports since 1972, when he became Coral Shores’ second-ever baseball coach. In 1974, he started Island Christian School and the following year started sports there as well. Hammon coached baseball, football, basketball and soccer at some point or another in his long career, hanging up his whistle six years ago for what he thought would be a quiet retirement. That is, until 2024, when his community needed him to fill a role for which he was uniquely qualified. Hammon will continue on as an assistant coach this season, explaining that “It’s a lot harder to run a practice at 75 than it is in your 20s.”
Tony Hammon. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
CONCH LACROSSE DOES A 180
After winning just two games one season earlier, Conchs head coach Alberto Piceno and the Key West boys lacrosse team turned things around. The team finished the season 11-4, winning over 60% of their faceoffs and scoring 137 goals in 2024. Senior standout Mack Hill signed on to further his career at Quincy University.
After leading his team to an 11-4 finish, senior star Mack Hill will continue his career at Quincy University. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly
FINS CLAIM FIRST CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP
According to head coach Joey Gonzalez, the Marathon Dolphins entered the South Florida Baseball Conference roughly 17 years ago, when Miami Country Day School founded it. The conference is composed of eight to 10 non-recruiting teams across South Florida, and prior to the 2024 season, Marathon had made it to the finals four other times, though a title eluded them. The fifth time was a charm for Gonzalez and the Dolphins, as they finally won the conference cup after an impressive 18-6 season which culminated in pitcher Dylan Ziels signing to Palm Beach State after a stellar high school career at Marathon.
The 2024 Marathon Dolphins finally broke through a formidable barrier to end their season as conference champions. CONTRIBUTED
ROSS EARNS HONORS PAIRING ATHLETICS WITH ACADEMICS
Mikkel Ross was one of Marathon’s most decorated athletes, making state appearances in cross country, weightlifting and track and field. But Ross’ prowess did not end with her athletic gifts; she excelled in the classroom, too. Ross was selected as one of just 24 student-athletes across the state to be awarded with the Florida Dairy Farmers Academic All-State Team, a prestigious recognition program run in tandem with the FHSAA. Ross is the fifth Marathon athlete in four years to earn the award.
Mikkel Ross. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly
TOMMY ROBERTS GETS REVAMP
BASILICA ADDS VARSITY PROGRAMS
2024 marked the first year since Island Christian School closed its doors that the Keys had four varsity teams in a sport. After successful junior varsity campaigns at Basilica School with their volleyball and basketball programs, the Mariners added a fourth Monroe County team to girls volleyball and boys basketball, with plans in the works for more as the school expands.
The Basilica School Mariners celebrate an earned point against Key West in early September. MAICEY MALGRAT/Keys Weekly
Opened in 1955, Key West’s football stadium went unnamed until it found a worthy namesake. In 1988, after the passing of the beloved principal Tommy Roberts, the field had its moniker. Roberts taught and coached at Key West High for over 30 years, finally landing his dream job as principal but tragically passing away in his first year at the helm. Key West High athletics historian Judd Wise called Roberts “infectiously positive and the dream administrator” due to Roberts’ dedication to the job. The stadium, long in need of refurbishment, got just that, reopening in 2024 with new bleachers capable of seating 3,100 loyal fans as well as new locker rooms, grass, goalposts and a training facility. The press box and concession stand are now expansive and state-ofthe-art, giving the Conchs a home stadium they can be proud of.
Then: Tommy Roberts Memorial Stadium takes shape in 1955. DON PINDER/Contributed
HURRICANES CLINCH FIFC TITLE
Coral Shores football had one of the greatest seasons in school history, winning eight games and securing the Florida Independent Football Conference. Senior AJ Putetti crossed into the end zone 22 times, the most in the Keys in 2024, and accumulated 1,973 all-purpose yards, 1,288 of which were on the ground. The seniorladen squad also managed to stretch the Hurricanes’ Battle of the Keys total win margin to 30-25 in their favor.
Coral Shores senior AJ Putetti racked up 1,973 yards under the lights this fall.
DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
HOLLY NAMED TO ELITE ROSTER
Coral Shores’ gridiron great Eddie Holly earned one of the most prestigious honors bestowed upon a high school football player when he was selected to the Florida Athletic Coaches Association (FACA) All-Star Team. Holly was chosen for his stellar performance on the field in 2024 and became only the second Monroe County player in history to take the field in the FACA All-Star Game, which was held in the Villages. Players need to be nominated by their region, then are voted on to make the cut. Holly racked up 134 total tackles in 2024, 22 of which were for a loss.
Eddie Holly. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
| Now: The revamped stadium reopened in 2024. CONTRIBUTED
FIGHTING CONCHS CLAIM PLAYOFF VICTORY
After a pair of early-season losses, the Conchs found themselves in an uphill battle to make it to the FHSAA 3A playoffs, but that’s just what they did. Key West surpassed several milestones on their trek toward the postseason, including win number 400 for the program and number 70 for head coach Johnny Hughes. The Fighting Conchs won their first playoff game since 1995 and ended with an 8-4 record, their best in a decade. Senior Jaden Fox had 21 touchdowns, leading the Conchs with 1,731 rushing yards and scoring an incredible 132 points for Key West, while fellow senior Jayden Gist reeled in five interceptions in 2024.
Jayden Gist, left, and Jaden Fox. MAICEY MALGRAT/Keys Weekly
MARATHON MAKES WAVES IN RURAL DIVISION
Marathon moved to the 1A Rural classification in 2024 and would have made the playoffs had a pair of storms not pared down the bracketing. Senior Fabbianho Louis Jeune racked up 1,131 yards and found himself second in Rural in field goals made and total points scored. He was third in total kicking points and extra points. The volleyball team also benefited from the reclassification, making it to the district championship match in their first season playing in the new division.
Marathon’s volleyball team made their mark in the rural classification, earning a trip to the district championship. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly
LADY ’CANES GO ON A RAMPAGE
Coral Shores’ volleyball team had a standout season, finishing 12-2 in 2024. The team was without a coach during the preseason, but once Jarrod Mandozzi picked up the reins, they did not lose a single match in August or September, going on an 11-game win streak that did not end until the ’Canes faced larger Key West in early October.
The Lady Hurricanes brought home nothing but Ws in August and September, ripping off an 11-game win streak to start the season. CONTRIBUTED
In just his first year in the sport, Aaron Lykins made it all the way to states after claiming district gold in diving. DOUG FINGER/ Keys Weekly
’CANES’ DREAM TEAM MAKES STATE APPEARANCE
Coral Shores sent five aquatic athletes to the state competition this season. Layne Smith, Abbie Sargent, Allegra Fucaraccio and Sofia Figueredo worked together to form a formidable relay team, while Aaron Lykins represented the Hurricanes in the 1-meter diving competition.
Allegra Fucaraccio and Olivia Figueredo formed the Hurri-
fearsome foursome that earned a shot at the state meet. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
MARATHON CROSS COUNTRY EXTENDS STREAK
In 15 years as Marathon’s head cross country coach, Jim Murphy has transformed the school’s program into one of the best in the state. In 2024, Marathon’s boys and girls teams both qualified for the state championships – the seventh consecutive appearance for the girls and 10th for the boys. Murphy announced recently that he is stepping down from the position, marking the end of an era at Marathon High School.
Caylaa Makimaa, left, and Naima Thomas are Key West’s first duo to individually qualify for the state meet in a single year. CONTRIBUTED
KEY WEST CROSS COUNTRY MAKES A STATEMENT
In the past few seasons, Key West’s girls cross country team has been steadily improving, much to the credit of head coach Keara McGraw and a solid core of dedicated athletes willing to go the extra mile to reach a goal. This season, two athletes earned an at-large bid to the state meet for the first time in school history. Caylaa Makimaa and Naima Thomas represented the Conchs in Tallahassee, finishing their senior season at the highest level and reaching their preseason goals.
BURSA RUNS DOWN A DREAM
Dolphin distance specialist Vance Bursa already had multiple years of state appearances, a state medal and a 7 Mile Bridge Run win prior to toeing the line at the FHSA 1A State Cross Country Championships in November, where he claimed ninth place and a PR of 16:05 – just six seconds off Jonathan Pitchford’s school record set in 2018. But he didn’t stop there; Bursa was invited to the Garmin Nationals in Alabama, where he competed against the best 18-and-under runners in the nation. There, he finished in the top 100, crossing in 15:46, making him the fastest Dolphin on land.
Layne Smith, left, Abbie Sargent,
canes’
Under the leadership of coach Jim Murphy, pictured in black, small-town teams from Marathon have earned their stripes at the state level in cross country. RICK MACKENZIE/Contributed
Vance Bursa takes a trip to the podium after a ninthplace finish at states. RICK MACKENZIE/Contributed
ALMANAC | Dec. 26
On this day: In 1776, a er staging a surprise a ack, George Washington and the Con nental Army scored a major upset victory over the Bri sh in the Ba le of Trenton.
In The Bleachers
News of the Weird
A Laysan albatro named Wisdom, who lives at the Midway Ato Na onal Wildlife Refuge, laid what experts believe to be her 60th e recently, her rst in four years. Wisdom is 74 years old, the A ociated Pre reported on Dec. 6. Laysan albatro es mate for life; Wisdom’s mate, Akeakamai, has not b n s n for several years, and Wisdom started ste ing out with another male. “We are op mis c that the e wi hatch,” said Jonathan Pli ner, supervisory wildlife biologist at the refuge. E s typica y incubate for about two months.
Adam
Brevity
In 1966, the pan-African holiday Kwanz , founded by profe or Maulana Karenga, was celebrated for the rst me.
FACT
Despite its impact in the Colonies, the Ba le of Trenton was fought by rela vely sma numbers on both sides -- an es mated 2,400 Con nental Army soldiers defeated the 1,500-strong Bri sh/He ian ga ison.
Adam Brevity
Nancy
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING
MONROE COUNTY
CONTRACTORS EXAMINING
BOARD
MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
Notice is Hereby Given To Whom it may concern, that on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 the Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (CEB) will hold a scheduled meeting at the Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Second Floor, BOCC Room, Marathon, Florida scheduled to commence at 9:30 A.M. This meeting is to hear the following: any person(s) to come before the board; any reports from Monroe County Assistant Attorney; any reports from Monroe County Building Official; any reports from Staff.
The Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (“CEB”) will review Certificate of Competency Trade applications and the Industry Input Section. All public participation in this meeting may be conducted via Communication Media Technology (“CMT”) using Zoom Webinar platform, during the scheduled meeting. Meeting Agenda and Zoom Webinar information is available 7 days prior to meeting date on the Monroe County Web Calendar and the Contractors Examining Board webpage: www.monroecounty-fl.gov
PURSUANT TO FLORIDA
STATUTE SECTION 286.0105, be advised that, if a person decides to appeal the decision made by the Contractors’ Examining Board with respect to any matter considered at today’s hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he or she may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.
ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special recommendations 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”.
NOTICE: It shall be the responsibility of each Respondent or other person addressing the Board to have an interpreter if the party is not able to understand or speak the English language. Rick Griffin, Building Official/ Board Secretary Jamie Gross, Senior Contractor Licensing Coordinator – CEB Board Monroe County Building Department Publish: December 26, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Key Largo Transfer Station New Storage Building Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from the County’s electronic bidding platform at https://monroecounty-fl. bonfirehub.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/ BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon request. Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform. Please do not email, mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Emailed/ mailed/physically delivered bids/proposals/responses WILL NOT be accepted. The Monroe County Purchasing
Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform at https:// monroecounty-fl.bonfirehub. com, no later than 3:00 P.M., on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform. Please do not submit your confidential financial information as part of your proposal. There are separate uploads for each set of documents, including confidential financial information. All proposals will be made public on the platform after an intended decision or 30 days, whichever is earlier, unless the bids/proposals are rejected in accordance with F.S. 119.071. If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance with public records law. In the event of a discrepancy between the bid amount on the Proposal Form and the bid amount entered in Bonfire, the bid amount listed in the “Proposal Form” provided by Monroe County in the RFP is the amount that will be utilized by the County when considering the bid proposal. The County reserves the right to waive any proposal/bid irregularity. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom.
us/j/4509326156
Meeting ID: 4509326156
One tap mobile:
+16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose)
Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Publish: December 26, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers
Effective December 4, 2024 Barbara Socha, M.D. is no longer practicing with Baptist Health Primary Care at the following location: 91550 Overseas Highway, Suite 215 Tavernier, FL 33070.
Patients who wish to receive copies of their medical records may log into our patient portal at myBaptistHealth.net, call 305-434-3205 or fax 786-260-0512 to request a records release.
Publish: December 5, 12, 19 & 26, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at 1:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Long Key Transfer Station New Storage Building Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from the County’s electronic bidding platform at bonfirehub.comhttps://monroecounty-fl. OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/ BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon request. Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform. Please do not email, mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Emailed/ mailed/physically delivered bids/proposals/responses WILL NOT be accepted. The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform at https:// monroecounty-fl.bonfirehub. com, no later than 1:00 P.M., on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform. Please do not submit your confidential financial information as part of your proposal. There are separate uploads for each set of documents, including confidential financial information. All proposals will be made public on the platform after an intended decision or 30 days, whichever is earlier, unless the bids/proposals are rejected in accordance with F.S. 119.071. If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance with public records law. In the event of a discrepancy between the bid amount on the Proposal Form and the bid amount entered in Bonfire, the bid amount listed in the “Proposal Form” provided by Monroe County in the RFP is the amount that will be utilized by the County when considering the bid proposal. The County reserves the right to waive any proposal/bid irregularity.
The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 1:00 P.M., on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156
Meeting ID: 4509326156
One tap mobile:
+16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York)
+16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose)
Dial by your location:
+1 646 518 9805 US (New York)
+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
Publish: December 26, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at 10:00 A.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following:
Cudjoe Key Transfer Station New Storage Building Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from the County’s electronic bidding platform at bonfirehub.comhttps://monroecounty-fl. OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/ BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon request. Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform. Please do not email, mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Emailed/ mailed/physically delivered bids/proposals/responses WILL NOT be accepted. The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform at https:// monroecounty-fl.bonfirehub. com, no later than 10:00A.M. on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform. Please do not submit your confidential financial information as part of your proposal. There are separate uploads for each set of documents, including confidential financial information. All proposals will be made public on the platform after an intended decision or 30 days, whichever is earlier, unless the bids/proposals are rejected in accordance with F.S. 119.071. If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance with public records law. In the event of a discrepancy between the bid amount on the Proposal Form and the bid amount entered in Bonfire, the bid amount listed in the “Proposal Form” provided by Monroe County in the RFP is the amount that will be utilized by the County when considering the bid proposal. The County reserves the right to waive any proposal/bid irregularity. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 10:00 A.M., on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156
Meeting ID: 4509326156
One tap mobile: +16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose)
Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
Publish: December 26, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.$CASH 305-332-0483
AUTOS FOR SALE
1964 Ford Galaxy, 427 Big Block, 5-speed, located in Key Largo. $49,000 954445-6647
EMPLOYMENT
Office Assistant needed in the Upper Keys, MM 80. Mon-Sat $20/hour. Must have own transportation. Call Patti 305-393-4433
Secretary/ Receptionist needed in Key Largo, MM104. Full-time, M-F, must have customer service experience. Call 305-916-5645 or Email admin@bluehorizonfl.com
Hiring: Lead Gutter
Installer - EXPERIENCE
REQUIRED – valid Driver’s License - must be comfortable with heights - located in Tavernier. To apply, please call or text Jay 305-587-1581.
Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time line cook. Private club, friendly atmosphere. Flexible lunch/dinner shifts available Tuesday – Sunday. Must provide photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Call 305743-6739 to schedule an interview or email office@ marathonyachtclub.com.
Marathon Yacht Club is hiring part-time servers and bartenders. Private club, friendly atmosphere, guaranteed gratuities. Flexible lunch/dinner shifts available Tuesday – Sunday. Must provide photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Call 305743-6739 to schedule an interview or email office@ marathonyachtclub.com.
Night Monitor – FREE Private Room in exchange for overnight availability at our Assisted Living Facility. 5 nights on, 5 nights off 10pm-8am plus weekly stipend, Drug & background screen required. www.westcare. com/join-our-team/
The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Administrative Asst. to Executive Director, Resident Care Supervisor with min. 3 yrs. experience of an LPN, Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: martinezm@kwha.org or 305-296-5621. Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www. kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968
Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer service-oriented Server/Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am7pm daily. Full time/ Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.
PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD FOR ONLY $25/WEEK FOR UP TO 5 LINES OF COPY. CALL 305-743-0844 TODAY!
HOBBIES/COLLECT.
PRIVATE COLLECTOR
WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578
HOUSING FOR RENT
2 BR / 1 BA unfurnished apartment for rent in Key Largo. $1,500/ month includes utilities. F/L/S Please Text: 786559-5494 or Email: apmz57@yahoo.com
Studio with Queen size bed available in Marathon. Furnished, kitchen, dining, newly renovated. No pets. $1,299 + utilities F/L/S 305-610-8002
2 BR/2BA unfurn. apt. for rent in Key Largo. W/D $1,600/monthall utilities included. F/L/S 305-504-1757 RENTED IN LESS THAN ONE MONTH!!!
FOR SALE 2018 40’ Phaeton X5H, Factory ordered, 450hp Cummins, Diesel Pusher 10kw w/Onan Generator, 39k miles, 4 Slides, 4 TVs. Loaded with extras. Can be seen by appointment in Marathon, FL. Asking $225,000. Call or text Jerry at 305-664-1286 Email: LC1082@comcast.net
STORAGE AVAIL.
Gated
LIVE IN PARADISE AND SEE DOLPHINS PLAY EVERYDAY!
DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER is a fun, environmentally friendly non-profit 501(c)(3) Corporation specializing in education, research, and rescue of marine mammals.
We have the following openings available. Please scan the QR code to visit the careers page on our website.
FACILITIES MAINTENANCE APPRENTICE
(Full-Time, Permanent)
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
(Full-Time, Part-Time, Permanent)
POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER
(The position is for one year initially, with a possibility of renewal contingent on performance and mutual satisfaction.)
DRC seeks to provide for the well-being of its employees by offering a competitive total package. DRC currently offers a 401k retirement plan, medical benefits, HSA account, paid holidays, vacation, sick and an employee assistance program. DRC also provides life and disability insurance at no cost to the employee.
COME JOIN THE FAMILY!
Email your resume and a DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org. EOE
DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER
58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL
Teaching... Learning... Caring
SYSTEMS ANALYST HARDWARE
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $102,164 - $105,024/annually
For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com. KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.
Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.
AUTO DIESEL VEHICLE TECHNICIAN
Starting
KEYS is
KEYS
Certain
The Moorings Village is seeking friendly, self motivated, team players for the position:
FRONT DESK
Competitive salary and great bene ts. Previous hospitality experience required. Weekends are a must. Job Types: Full-time
Please email your resume to Sara@MooringsVillage.com or call the reception o ce at 305.664.4708
Hospital
Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Engineering Department:
APPRENTICE AUTO MECHANIC
Starting
For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.
KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.
resume to: turtlehospital@turtlehospital.org
Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.
JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT HELPING PEOPLE COPE AND CHANGE FOR 52 YEARS!
We provide Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Programs to the Florida Keys community while valuing and rewarding our employees.
KEY LARGO
Lead Certified Recovery Peer Support Specialist Peer Support Specialist Advocate (PT, FT)
KEY WEST
Case Manager (Adult, Child)
Prevention Specialist (HIV & Children)
MARATHON
Care Coordinator (PT)
Driver – PT (CDL not required)
RN/Licensed Practical Nurse (FT/PT) Advocate (PT)
Prevention Specialist
*Behavioral Health Technicians – 3 shifts (FT/PT)
*Support Worker (Assisted Living, PT)
*Night Monitor (Assisted Living - Free Housing)
*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary.
Background and drug screen req. EEOC/DFWP COMPETITIVE
EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!! Apply at guidancecarecenter.org
Search Employment/Portal/Location/zip THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.
OPENINGS AVAILABLE
PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS
- Medical Assistant 1, Upper Keys Internal Medicine, $5k Bonus
- Physician Assistant 1-Surgical, Ortho, Tavernier, $5k Bonus
- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN-PA-C), BHMG Multispecialty, Marathon, $5k Bonus
- Medical Assistant 2, General Surgery, Upper Keys, $5k Bonus
MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST
- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN/PA-C), Medical Oncology Key West-MCI, $5k Bonus
- Patient Access Associate 2, Operation Support Key West-MCI, $1K Bonus
- Medical Assistant 1, Medical Oncology Key West -MCI, $5k Bonus
- Registered Nurse, Chemotherapy Infusion, Fl Keys-MCI, $15k Bonus
- Clinical Pharmacist, Key West-MCI, $5k Bonus
- Radiation Therapist, Key West-MCI, $12k Bonus
TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL
- Cook, Dietary
- Group Exercise Instructor, Mariners Wellness Center
- Mechanic 3, Facility Operations
- Radiology Technologist 1, Imaging-MRI, $40k Bonus
- Environmental Health & Safety Specialist, Emergency Preparedness
- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (Mammo & X Ray), Radiology, $50k Bonus
- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (X Ray & CT), Radiology, $50k Bonus
- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, Radiology, $25k Bonus
- Patient Access Associate 1, Gastro, Tavernier, $1k Bonus
- Registered Nurse Utilization Review, Case Management, Part Time, Weekend Days
MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
- ED Team Coordinator 1, Emergency Department
- Experience Advisor, Patient Experience
- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (CT & X Ray) Radiology, $50k Bonus
- Radiology Technologist 1, Radiology, $40k Bonus
- Registered Nurse, Post Anesthesia Care Unit, $15k Bonus
- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (Mammo & X Ray) Radiology, $50k Bonus
- Pool RN, Emergency Department, PD
