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COMMUNITY NEWS 11
Say it isn’t snow? P.22 ¢
XMAS FANATIC
Man documents
Christmas year-round
in book | P. 32
ECO-SAFE
Experts, scientists gather for first global Sunscreen product
summit | P.5 benefitting all | P. 26
2 UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018
Come one, come all, and come hungry!
Santa Claws
Extravaganza!
All week long, take a picture in our photo booth with props,
post it on your social media and tag us! When you show us you’ve
done all this, we will give you a free domestic beer or wine!
Thursday locals get 10% off drinks!
Friday Ugly Christmas Sweater Party!
With live music from 6-8pm
Santa C
Happy Hour is every day from 5-7pm at The laws
Mar Ba
$1.00 off drafts and wine! $3.00 p
er med
r
ium
sized c
law
Come shop our first
monthly Saturday Market!
From 12-4pm check out some great local shop
vendors including, Susan Tower Accessories,
Tyler Brunner Photography, Candles, Kadan
Swimwear and more! Followed by live music
from 6:30-9:30 by Lobster Traffic Jam!
See you at the
Mar Bar for
Santa Claws
Extravaganza!
Open Monday- Friday 4:30PM to 10Pm Saturday and Sunday from 11:30AM to 10PM
We are located in the Casa Mar Village 90775 Old Highway Tavernier behind the Casa Mar Seafood Market • 305 853-6199
UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018 3
4 COMMUNITY NEWS UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018
NUMBER OF THE WEEK ON THE COVER
Dec. 10 marked the 98th day of the 220-day project Juliann DeSiato, 24, of Islamorada,
to clear Keys canals of marine debris. So far, 49 throws up her arms in celebration af-
percent of the canals have been completed, or 84 ter completing her first half marathon
of the 172 identified. Twenty-three percent of the with her father Robert DeSiato and
grant funding has been used, or $10.5 million of sister Alexis DeSiato, 29, at the finish
91760 Overseas Hwy. line of the Islamorada Half Marathon
Tavernier, FL 33070 the $45.8 million. To see the schedule of canals,
& 10K run at Robbie’s.DOUG FINGER
Office: 305.363.2957 visit www.monroecounty-fl.gov/irmacanalcleanup.
www.keysweekly.com
Publisher
EVERGLADES
Jason Koler
SARAH THOMAS
jason@keysweekly.com sthomas@keysweekly.com
SANTA’S RESTORATION
Publishing Partner
Britt Myers
britt@keysweekly.com
Editor ON TAP
BACKSTAGE
Sara Matthis
sara@keysweekly.com JIM McCARTHY
jim@keysweekly.com
Copy Editor
O
Mike Howie
CREW
mike@keysweekly.com fficials from various agen-
cies paid a visit to Islamo-
Bureau Chief
Jim McCarthy
rada on Dec. 12 to discuss
jim@keysweekly.com the Everglades Water Supply
Project and the Combined Operational
Account Executives
Nola Acker HOLIDAY HELPERS Plan, which will determine how the
water is used.
nola@keysweekly.com
SWING INTO ACTION For decades, state and federal
T
Lesley Aaron governments have been building a net-
lesley@keysweekly.com
hey don’t arrive in a sleigh work of restoration projects with the
Staff Writers with eight tiny reindeer, but goal to deliver more water to Florida
Hays Blinckmann the Holiday Helpers of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Deten- Bay. Projects have cost taxpayers more
hays@keysweekly.com Keys have plenty in common tion Deputies Reid and Pettry from the than $1 billion.
Marathon jail collect toys this week for
with Santa. Wesley House is the lead With construction complete, the
Office/Circulation Manager Holiday Helpers of the Florida Keys.
Charlotte Hruska agency of a coalition of community MONROE COUNTY JAIL/Contributed
next step will be to turn the projects on
char@keysweekly.com organizations, local government in order to get much needed ecosys-
agencies, and nonprofits joining so that parents can visit and pick tem benefits, according to Cara Cappa,
Production Manager together to make special families’ out toys. Each family must bring a Everglades Restoration program
Anneke Patterson
anneke@keysweekly.com holidays merry and bright. referral form and an ID, and they manager.
Their united mission? “Providing are assisted with shopping for their Now, agencies including the U.S.
Design / Web Master holiday gifts to children of families children: three toys per child, as well Army Corps of Engineers, South Florida
Travis Cready
who are economically challenged, as stocking stuffers and decorations. Water Management District and Na-
travis@keysweekly.com
working in the service industry, con- “The parents get the power to select tional Park Service are figuring out a
Design / Pre-Press struction, tourism- and water-based the gifts, because they know their plan to operate the system. Through
Javier Reyes economy.” children best,” said Hiller. the Combined Operational Plan, a
javier@keysweekly.com “We want to be sure every child Community events have helped comprehensive integrated water
Irene de Bruijn is going to have a good Christmas,” fill the shelves—the Lighted Bike control plan, agencies will dictate how
irene@keysweekly.com said Claire Hiller, special events and Parade required a donated toy for the restoration projects are used, how
volunteer coordinator at Wesley registration. much water comes to Florida Bay and
Classifieds
Anneke Patterson House. Holiday Helpers operates “A lot of businesses, when they where the water will flow.
anneke@keysweekly.com on a referral basis, working not only have their company parties, ask their Discussions on Dec. 12 focused on
305.743.0844 through Wesley House, but also staff to bring toys for Holiday Help- modifying water deliveries to Ever-
through Salvation Army; Key West ers,” Hiller said. “We have incredible glades National Park. Jed Redwine,
Se habla español
THE UPPER KEYS WEEKLY (ISSN Police Department; Monroe County individuals and service groups.” Key of the National Park Service, noted
1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED Sheriff’s Office; Florida Keys Healthy West hotspot La Te Da, whose an- that improving hydrologic conditions
WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY
WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709
Start Coalition; SOS; Early Learning nual holiday féte is always one for through Shark River Slough in the park
OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARA- Coalition and more. the books, is famous for providing is an important first step. Redwine
THON FL 33050. APPLICATION Hiller said the referral basis tar- a mountain of toys for little Conchs said it would be the first time since the
TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POST-
AGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT gets “families that we know that are via Holiday Helpers. St. Mary’s has 1960s and ’70s that more water would
LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITION- going to have trouble over Christ- an angel tree, and a member of the pass through Shark Slough. Officials
AL MAILING OFFICES.
mas.” Referral forms go to childcare congregation donates a toy for each said the plan re-distributes the existing
All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted
centers, as well as the Sheriff’s Office “angel.” water budget.
materials. and Police Department. The shared The folks from the Monroe Ecological and flood risk subteams
effort to disseminate toys (and County Sheriff’s Office also swing presented an evaluation during the
holiday cheer) is taken very seri- into Santa mode. “Jon Crane and meeting of the Combined Operational
POSTMASTER:
SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO THE ously. The different organizations his Leadership Monroe class — for Plan Round 2 alternatives and base
KEYS WEEKLY, 9709 OVERSEAS communicate closely to be sure each nine or 10 years — they continue to conditions. A workshop was also held
HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. population is served. Hiller recalls re- provide bicycles for Holiday Helpers,” to solicit input on optimization of the
ceiving an email from the folks at the Hiller said. Crane is the operations final alternative for round 3 hydrologic
News Deadline United Way stating they want to be captain at the Monroe County Jail. modeling, which is scheduled to start
Tuesday Noon sure no one in the Keys “falls through “The Sheriff’s Office lines all the bikes in January. The meeting, which lasted
Advertising Deadline the cracks.” up in the hallway, and they deliver throughout the day, also gathered
Tuesday 2 p.m.
Holiday toy stores are set up in them, or the parents can come pick feedback from the public toward the
Key West, Marathon and Key Largo, out their bike.” end.
UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018 ENVIRONMENT 5
GLOBAL GATHERING
Experts convene in bid nity we have here, of people working
to restore, reinvigorate every day to save coral reefs,” Win-
ters said. “This week, we have the
coral reefs opportunity to connect not just with
people you might know. I’m hoping
JIM McCARTHY it catalyzes new connections and to
jim@keysweekly.com learn from one another.”
A
Even though individuals may
“meeting of hope” is how differ on details related to coral reef
Scott Winters termed it dur- restoration, Winters said, they’re all
ing the opening remarks of on the same team as they work to
Reef Futures 2018 on Dec. make a difference. Winters said the
11 at Ocean Reef. more those in coral restoration work
With 500 in attendance, the as one community, the greater their
symposium from Dec. 10-14 is bring- impact.
ing experts and leading scientists Tom Moore, consortium co-chair
from 40 countries to share the latest and coral reef restoration program
science and techniques for coral reef manager with NOAA, has been a
Three-year old Palmata with Diadema. NOAA RESTORATION CENTER/Contributed
restoration while kicking off a global tireless advocate and champion of
effort to scale up restoration as a the coral reefs, according to Winters.
‘A TON OF SHARING’
tool for coral reef conservation and In his remarks, Moore noted how a
management. small group gathered two years ago
The symposium, put on by in Fort Lauderdale to discuss form-
the Coral Restoration Consortium, ing a restoration community. And
focused on the role of restoration in
reef management and conservation,
two years later, a global gathering
was held for the first time.
Consortium groups working on solutions
best restoration practices, interven- “It’s remarkable and exceeded JIM McCARTHY
tions in context of a changing planet my wildest expectations,” Moore jim@keysweekly.com
A
and demonstrating the value and said. “The driving force behind our
efficacy of restoration and interven- success isn’t a logo or organizational rmed with scientists, coral practitioners and educators, the
tions. name; it’s everyone in the room to Coral Restoration Consortium is dedicating its efforts on en-
Winters, who’s co-chair of Coral work collectively as one team. We abling coral reef ecosystems.
Restoration Consortium and CEO are working collectively to make a To bring coral reefs back, CRC says the focus is being put
of Coral Restoration Foundation, difference.” on topical priorities for the next three to five years. For each priority, a
said it’s not too late for intervention Speakers included Buki Rinkev- dedicated working group is being formed to develop solutions-oriented
and not too late to save coral reefs. ich, of the National Institute of action plans and to help establish best management practices.
Winters said the room full of people Oceanography in Israel, who dis- According to CRC, priorities include scaling up in-water, land-based
is passionate and engaged in saving cussed coral restoration activities. and larval propagation; designing projects to demonstrate ecosystem
the reef. Sarah Fangman, superintendent of functioning and coastal protection; fostering genetics science; and
The Coral Restoration Consor- Florida Keys National Marine Sanctu- developing restoration monitoring guidelines and common-access data
tium (CRC) is made up of scientists, ary, spoke on the reef system in the platforms.
managers, coral restoration practi- Keys and the challenges faced. Tom Moore, consortium co-chair and coral reef restoration pro-
tioners and educators, dedicated to Ilsa Kuffner of the U.S. Geologi- gram manager with NOAA, said the consortium wouldn’t be what it
enabling coral reef ecosystems to cal Survey, Reed Noss of the Florida is today without Tali Vardi, coral science lead at NOAA. Vardi, who’s
survive the 21st century and beyond. Institute of Conservation Science coordinator with CRC, spoke during the symposium on Dec. 11 about
Its mission is to bring collaboration and Line Bay, research scientist with the consortium. Two years ago, scientists and managers gathered and
among participants and facilitate the Australian Institute of Marine realized they wanted to get the community together.
scientific ingenuity to demonstrate Science, also spoke during the sym- “There was a ton of sharing and a ton of energy,” she said.
that restoration can be achieved. posium. The CRC is initially focusing on Caribbean coral restoration. CRC is
“It really is amazing the commu- inviting participation from scientists, managers, and practitioners work-
ing in other regions to help expand knowledge and collaboration.
If successful in the Caribbean and resources permit, the consortium
Coral Restoration Foundation would look forward to helping spread restoration efforts globally. Best
outplants in Key Largo. ALEX practices and lessons learned from CRC efforts in the Caribbean will be
NEUFELD/Contributed shared with managers around the globe through the Reef Resilience
Network.
According to CRC, reefs provide not only marine life with food but
500 million people with nourishment as well. On the medical side,
drugs derived from coral and reef-associated species are treating ail-
ments and several types of cancer.
6 COMMUNITY NEWS UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018
NEW
ADDITIONS
T
he Rotary Club of Key Largo in-
stalled four new members to
its new Rotary Satellite Club of
Key Largo Sunset on Dec. 3 at
Playa Largo Resort & Spa.
Nicole Blanche, Melissa Lopez,
Lourdes Montagne and Sarah Master-
son join the 30 founding members of
the new club, officially chartered by
Rotary International on Oct. 4, 2018.
“Eight out of 10 Rotarians world-
wide are men. So, it’s remarkable that
we have 26 women in our new club of
34 members,” said Key Largo Rotary
president Jennifer McComb. “Rotary
International was founded in 1905,
but women were not permitted to
join Rotary clubs until 1989, after the
U.S. Supreme Court ruled that women
could not be excluded from member-
ship.”
— Contributed
Rotary Club of Key Largo president Jennifer McComb, left, poses with new members Nicole Blanche, Melissa Lopez, Lourdes Montagne
and Sarah Masterson, Satellite Club of Key Largo Sunset chair Lisa Feliciano and Key Largo Rotarian Cheryl Powers. CONTRIBUTED
DEDICATED
Karen Sharp, presi-
dent, chief executive
officer, and director of
SERVICE
First State Bank of the
Florida Keys, is marking 30 years
of service at the bank.
Sharp began her career in
President the financial industry in 1981 and has been
working at First State Bank since 1988.
celebrates “Karen’s vision, dedication, leadership
30th year and commitment to the bank and Keys com-
munity has been an important factor in our
at First ongoing success and an example to us all,”
State Bank said Jack Spottswood, chairman of the bank’s
board. “We are very lucky
to have her as the leader
of our local family of
bankers.”
A native of Dear-
born, Mich., Sharp is a
Florida Certified Public Brody Michael Laczos
Accountant and holds
a bachelor’s degree in Brody Michael Lazcos was born at
business administration 8:37 a.m. on Nov. 2 at Baptist Memo-
Karen Sharp from Florida Atlantic rial in Miami. Brody was 18-3/4 inches
University, and a master’s tall and weighed 5 pounds, 2 ounces.
degree in administration from Central Michi- Parents are Lindsey Elizabeth Lazcos, a
gan University. senior casualty adjuster at Progressive
She is a board member of the Key West Insurance, and David Michael Lazcos,
Chamber of Commerce and the Florida Bank- senior nuclear operator at Florida
ers Association’s BancServ Committee, and is Power and Light. The family resides in
a past board member of the association. She Key Largo. Maternal grandparents are
is also a past board member of the Commu- Daniel and Deborah Ewald of Austin,
nity Foundation of the Florida Keys and past Texas. Paternal grandparents are Pub-
president and honorary board member of lio and Miriam Lazcos of Key Largo.
American Cancer Society Florida Keys Unit.
- Contributed
UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018 7
CUSTOMER
APPRECIATION
Ernest and Eufrocina Nader dance to the sounds of musi-
cian Micah Gardner, not pictured, during a Centennial Bank
customer appreciation party in the parking lot of the bank’s
Islamorada branch on Nov.29. “We love to dance” said Ernest.
DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
Great jobs with
great pay do exist
in the Keys. Join Dr. Brian Margane as he
presents on the Fleet Buen Jesus
We are growing and looking for y Nuestra Senora del Rosario
talented people to join our team. which sunk off Florida's coast in
1622. Learn about life aboard a
Spanish merchant ship and the
Email your resume to
goods they carried.
britt@keysweekly.com.
Museum members call ahead to
reserve your seat!
Exhibits & Museum Store open
until 6:45
Great last minute holiday gifts!
Locally owned and
operated since 2003.
8 COMMUNITY NEWS UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018
SAVE THE DATE
ADMISSION
Thursday, Dec. 13
• Free screening of “A Plastic FREE FOR
Ocean” and panel discussion at 5 p.m.
at Murray Nelson Center, Key Largo. BOYS’
Saturday, Dec. 15 BASKETBALL
• Deadline for nominations for the
2019 Unsung Heroes awards present- GAMES
A
ed by the Community Foundation of
the Florida Keys. Visit cffk.org. dmission will be free for
all of Coral Shores’ 2018-
Friday, Dec. 14 19 boys basketball games
• Artist Kathleen Denis at “Demo thanks to the benevolence
and Dessert” event from 6:30 to 8:30 of Dr. Rob Prosek and his Florida
p.m. at Our Place in Paradise Gallery, Veterinary Cardiology Clinics.
Tavernier. “We’re very grateful to Dr.
• Jingle, Mingle & Shop from 4 to Prosek,” said varsity boys basketball
6 p.m. at Cirque Salon Studios, Key coach, Jarrod Mandozzi. “Last year
Largo. he purchased new uniforms for the
Florida Department of State/CONTRIBUTED
• Holiday Open House from 4 to 8 team. Between him and the Upper
p.m. at Wild Lily, Islamorada. Keys Foundation, we don’t have to
TAVERNIER
charge participation fees and we
Saturday, Dec. 15 don’t have to fundraise.”
• Meet Santa from 9 a.m. to 12 “Doctor
p.m. at Island Dolphin Care, Key Largo. Prosek has been
• See Santa arrive by boat at 11 extremely gra-
WHAT’S IN A NAME? a.m. at World Wide Sportsman, Islamo-
rada.
cious to our
athletic depart-
UPPER KEYS HISTORY • Keys Community Concert Band
Holiday Suite Treats concert at 4 p.m.
ment over the
years; I can’t begin
at Founders Park, Islamorada. to tell you all the
BRAD BERTELLI
www.keysweekly.com
ways he’s as-
A
Sunday, Dec. 16 sisted,” said CSHS
barstool historian would say the origin story of • Island Art Gallery and Gifts open- Dr. Rob Prosek Athletic Director,
the Tavernier place name involves a thirsty sailor ing from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Rainbarrel, Rich Russell. “He
coming ashore and asking, “Is there a tavern Islamorada. recently approached me about how
near?” Others have pondered if the name might we might improve attendance for
be French in origin, as “Tavernier” is the French word for Wednesday, Dec. 19 boys’ basketball. Our discussion
innkeeper. Looking more closely at the name’s evolution, • “Looking Good in the Neighbor- led to him agreeing to underwrite
the origin seems to have more linguistic than cultural hood” shopping event from 5 to 7 p.m. the projected gate revenues for the
roots. Early names for the island include Caio di Tabanos at MARC Thrift & Boutique, Tavernier. season.” Our students, parents and
(1639) and Cayo Tabanos (1742). Roughly translated from • Immerse Yourself! Free presenta- community members can now see
the Spanish, the island was known as Horsefly Key. What tion series at 7 p.m. at History of Diving Coach (Jarrod) Mandozzi’s guys play
is important to keep in mind about the word tabano is Museum, Islamorada. on a regular bases. We all know
that in Spanish the “b” is pronounced with a “v” sound. that athletes feed off of the crowd
This would explain why the William Roberts work “First Thursday, Dec. 20 so this is a ‘win-win’ scenario.”
Discovery and Natural History of Florida” (1763) identi- • Third Thursday Artwalk from 6 to When asked for comment, Coral
fied the island as Cayo de Tivanos. A 1772 chart drawn 9 p.m. at Morada Way, Islamorada. Shores’ principal, Blake Fry said,
by William de Brahm uses the name Stephens Island. It “Folks have no idea how many ways
would be a short-lived reference, as the island is labeled Monday, Dec. 31 Dr. Prosek has helped our school.
on a 1775 chart by both the Spanish and English names, • Fireworks at Blackwater Sound Rich can tell you about all the things
Cayo Tabano and Key Tavernier. At just over 31 acres, with viewing from bayside restaurants he’s done for the athletic depart-
this privately owned island has been Tavernier Key ever located between MM 103-104, Key ment but the full truth is, he assists
since. For those with an extra $10 million in their pocket, Largo. with ANY needs he hears about at
the island is for sale. Coral Shores. We all remain in his
Brad Bertelli is curator of the Keys History & Discovery Wednesday, Jan. 9 debt.”
Center. • Master gardener plant clinic from
9 a.m. to noon at Murray Nelson Gov-
ernment Center, Key Largo.
To see Keyswide events, sign up
for TheWeekly’s e-mail at keysweekly.
com.
UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018 9
JOIN US FOR
DECEMBER DISCOUNT DAYS!
Happy Holidays from MASA!
A Favorite Locals Event! Register today and bring this ad with you to receive a $10 gift card!
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THRU DECEMBER 24TH!
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ay & Friday
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NO DEDUCTIBLES OR CLAIM FORMS | NO HEALTH QUESTIONS TO JOIN
10 KEYS EATS UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018
OCEAN TO TABLE
Rolls and more at local fish shack
ANNUAL TENT SALE
DECEMBER 15 & 16
2 DAYS ONLY! The calamari salad at What The Fish Rolls & More features grilled calamari, arugula,
shredded tomatoes and romaine./JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly
Store wide sale
JIM McCARTHY
jim@keysweekly.com
O
ut of the blue, onto the dish
20%-50% OFF
and to the table. What The
Fish Rolls & More focuses
on ocean to table and locally
caught specialties, seasonal favorites
as well as a wide variety of seafood
On Brands Such As: Beach Marine Bait Pens, Costa, Salt Life Optics, Aftco related buns and ready-to-eat entrees.
Patrons of the fish shack, located
Gaffs, Shimano, PowerPro, Mustad, Tsunami, Cuda Tools, Bubba Blades,
next to Casa Mar Village in Islamorada,
Play Action Products, Pinfish Traps and more!
get the freshest food prepared in an
assortment of creative menu items
that draw from the Keys’ richness, in
Penn
Rod & Reel $8.99 doz 15% off All Shimano &
Accurate an innovative take on the island’s food
Combos all YETI Reels culture.
Gear & products
15% off Apparel; 15% off That includes a variety of “What
20% off the Fish Rolls.” Alex Tani, who runs The luscious calamari roll features crispy
the fish shack, says the Roller Lob- calamari, cilantro, lettuce and spicy
ster, Calamari Roll and the Casa Mar mayo.
Roll are among the popular choices.
30% OFF! Deep Discounts on PowerPro
Roller Lobster features fresh lobster “He (my brother-in-law) had this
with house mayo, lettuce, cilantro and idea in his head,” Tani said. “He asked
lemon butter. Casa Mar Roll features if we would like to take his idea to
the fresh catch from the local seafood make this. We decided at that time to
market with cole slaw, lettuce and aji take the opportunity. Sometimes he
Amarillo. came here and he showed me how
“Forget it,” he said. “They’re the to make the food, and he gave the
best.” recipes to me.”
Bubba From the grill, patrons can order Tani says the fish shack gets its
Blades calamari salad or the fresh catch. fresh catch from Casamar Seafood and
There’s also a wide selection of tacos owner Ulises Perdomo. Fresh food is
as well as hot dogs on a fresh, toasted very important to the fish shack, Tani
bun. For lunch, try the El Chingon dog said.
that’s made with queso fresco, cilantro “We don’t have a space to freeze
avocado and chipotle mayo, or the Fat fish and I don’t like to freeze fish be-
Tuesday that’s made with Andouille cause the taste is different,” Tani said.
Take it with you or we store
it for you with our 5 & sausage, caramelized onions and pep- “We work with Ulises, and he’s a friend
10 case chum cards pers and creole mustard. Wine and of our family. We work together. Hav-
@bigtimebaitandtackle
beer are available. ing the seafood market nearby is one
Tani, who’s from Italy and grew up big value that we have.”
in Venezuela, said he learned how to What The Fish? Rolls & More is
Bulk 30-50 Pack Stick Lead
& Bulk Lead $2.99 lb.
make the food from his brother-in-law open Tuesday and Wednesday from
YT Candy Jigs $16.99 Carlos, who’s a professional chef and 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Thursday through
the one behind the fish shack. Tani Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and
Don't Miss Out! | 305.289.0199 said his wife and he worked hard at Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. More
11499 Overseas Hwy • MM 53 the beginning to get it going. information is at whatthefishrolls.com.
(across from D’asign Source)UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018 11
Sunday, Dec. 23
at IBC tasting room
and distillery
MM 82.2 • 305.440.2162
305-852-3002
Happy Holidays from our Team to Yours!12 GIVING UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018
Laid-Back Waterfront Island Dining & Tiki Bar
Social Starters • Handcrafted Burgers/Sandwiches
Big Salad Burger Bowls • Frozen Treats • Specialty Cocktails
OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY FROM 11:30AM-10PM
Located at Amara Cay Resort
80001 Overseas Highway, Islamorada
amaracayresort.com (305) 664-0073
Sewing Club members from Treasure Village Montessori Charter School deliver five
handmade quilts to the Crystal Health & Rehab Center. CONTRIBUTED
THOUGHTFUL GIFT
School sewing club
FRESH
THIS HOLIDAY SEASON SEND THE GIFT OF donates quilts
M
embers of the Sewing
Club from Treasure Village
Montessori Charter School
delivered five handmade
quilts to the Crystal Health & Rehab
FROM FLORIDA SEAFOOD Center at Plantation Key Nursing Cen-
ter in Tavernier on Dec. 10.
We offer catering for your Holiday parties and events as well as shipping The students have been meeting
Fresh Florida Seafood to surprise your friends and family this season! weekly this semester under the direc-
tion of the school’s art director, Diana
STONE CRABS, FLORIDA LOBSTER, YELLOW TAIL SNAPPER, MAHI MAHI McGirk-Hillie to learn how to use a
sewing machine to create quilts.
“The students enjoyed the process
in making the quilts and are now pro-
ficient in using the sewing machines.
They were especially thrilled today to A quilt is delivered to a woman at Crystal
deliver their creations to local com- Health & Rehab Center
munity members who can use them. It
has been a really wonderful way to
spread some holiday cheer through
sewing.” said McGirk-Hillie.
The fabric used in the quilts was
FRESH SOUPS, SALADS, AND SAUCES: donated by parents and businesses.
Conch Salad, Snapper, Smoked Fish Dip, Lobster Bisque
—Contributed
Seafood Market open Mon - Thurs 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM, Fri & Sat 7 AM - 7 PM
1313 Ocean bay Drive
Key Largo, Fl 33037
305 451-3782
www.keylargofisheries.comUPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018 COMMUNITY NEWS 13
SOUTHWINDS
TREE LIGHTING
Channing Curls, 3, gets a closer look at the
lights while walking with her mother, Casey
Jefferies, during the Islamorada Founda-
tion’s 60 Nights of Lights tree lighting event
at Southwinds Park in Islamorada on Nov. 29.
Each tree wrapped in lights is sponsored by Is-
lamorada residents and businesses; the event
is the sole funding source for Southwinds
Park. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
Last
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102 Seminole Blvd. Tavernier FL, Suite 2 • (305) 453-0801 305.453.487714 ISLAMORADA UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018
TO ACCEPT OR
NOT TO ACCEPT?
Council to consider affordable
housing allocation
JIM McCARTHY
jim@keysweekly.com
F
ourteen agenda items await action by village council on
Thursday, Dec. 13 — one of which is the proposed 300
affordable housing allocations from the state of Florida.
Additional development rights are part of 1,300 awarded
by Gov. Rick Scott to Monroe County following Hurricane Irma.
During last month’s council meeting, Affordable Housing
Citizens’ Advisory Committee chairwoman Rebekah Susa came
before members to provide an update. The committee met Nov.
5 and discussed the 300 units the village may or may not accept.
Susa said the committee is “letting Marathon blaze the trail and
we’re kind of sitting back to see what happens with them.”
In Marathon, resident Cecelia Mattino recently filed an admin-
istrative challenge to the city’s plan to add 300 affordable housing
units. Mattino alleges the additional development will affect hur-
ricane evacuation and that residents of the new units aren’t neces-
sarily part of the workforce, nor are the units truly affordable. The
case will be heard by an administrative law judge from the state
Department of Administrative Hearings.
Susa went on to note that the committee believes the village
should consider stockpiling them.
“Just having the 300 units might be something valuable,”
Susa said. “We don’t have to issue them if we don’t need to. But
if it comes down to a time crunch, then we would maybe want to
warehouse them.”
Councilwoman Cheryl Meads said last month that she doesn’t
know why the village would ever reject 300 permits that “we don’t
have to use.” Meads also noted that commercial structures that
are one story and are a certain height can add a second story and
use affordable housing permits.
“We actually have more room than people might think we do
and I don’t know why we would ever say ‘no,’” she said.
Along with an ordinance to establish provisions for new af-
fordable unit allocations, council members will consider a text
amendment related to policy on limiting transient rental use of
The Company residential properties and an ordinance to establish an idle speed/
no-wake zone for the Wheel Ditch off Whale Harbor Channel.
Notable resolution items include approving an agreement
That Cares for professional services for a canal restoration project; request-
ing FDOT approval of the design of the pedestrian bridge over
• Coconut Palm Trimming U.S. 1 at Founders Park; installation of community art features on
• Tree Pruning and Removals the FDOT property adjacent to U.S. 1 at about MM 80, bayside;
approving a project agreement for Founders Park Breakwater
• Tree Replacements repairs phase 1; and ratifying and approving a 99-year lease with
• Landscapes - Designed and Built Habitat for Humanity for property at 84771 Overseas Highway for
affordable housing use.
• Dump Truck and Bobcat Services
• Stump Removal
Ocean Reef to Key West
Islamorada, Florida Keys
305 853-6849 • LaIslaTree.com • Office@LaIslaTree.com • Lic # SP4353UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018 UPPER KEYS 15
AWARDING FUNDS
DAC says ‘yes’ to assistance
Caroly Shumway, executive direc-
tor for Reef Environmental Education
Foundation, came before the com-
mittee to discuss a request to add car
charging stations, solar roof installa-
for various projects tion, lionfish aquarium display and
educational signs. With solar panels,
JIM McCARTHY sunlight will be used to power facilities
jim@keysweekly.com while providing electric vehicles with
F
free charging opportunities.
unds could be on the way to support improvement projects REEF says it’s spent years enhanc-
in Key Largo and Islamorada, if the Tourist Development ing the campus to draw conservation
Council and Monroe County Board of County Commission- enthusiasts to the facility. REEF’s out-
ers give the necessary approvals. door and indoor campus has become
On Dec. 4, District Five’s Advisory Committee met at the Murray an educational oasis that features
Nelson Government & Cultural Center to consider three applica- technological advances and renew-
tions. All received unanimous committee approval for funding. Two able energy resources rarely seen in
applications were for repairs and enhancements to Island Dolphin the Florida Keys. Following discussion
Care and one was for Reef Environmental Education Foundation. over installation of the charging sta-
Committee members approved a request in the amount of tions, committee members gave the
$1,162.50 to complete work on Island Dolphin Care’s awning, which go-ahead for funding in the amount of
was damaged by Hurricane Irma. Peter Hoagland, who runs the $35,250.
nonprofit with his wife, Deena, said the awning was 12 years old In Islamorada, District Four’s
before the storm took it out. Advisory Council met on Dec. 4 and ap-
Approval was also granted for $43,217 in repair work on Island proved funding for four projects. They
Dolphin Care’s elevators, also damaged by the hurricane. include Founders Park Gate House,
The Hoaglands say the number of tourists they’re seeing come $12,000, and Key Tree Cactus Preserve
through the doors is growing. The response they’ve been getting Amenities, $77,500, through the village
has also been positive. In their application, the Hoaglands acknowl- of Islamorada. The Coral Restoration
edge how much of an attraction dolphins are to visitors. Island Foundation received approval in the
Dolphin Care programs, at its fully accessible facility, are for dolphin amount of $6,000 for coral restoration
interactions with children and adults with special needs and family while The Florida Keys History of Diving
members. Museum received committee approval
for $28,500 for HVAC and security.16 WILDLIFE UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018
SARA MATTHIS
sara@keysweekly.com
MANATEE I
t hasn’t been a good year for the many reasons, including infections and
manatee in the state of Florida. birth complications. The data captures
Statewide, there have been 763 that, plus deaths in categories such
NUMBERS
deaths reported in the first 11 as perinatal (stillborn or very young
months compared to the 538 reported manatees), cold stress (water tempera-
deaths in 2017. tures below 68 degrees), natural, unde-
The red tide blooms in Lee, Char- termined (no necropsy) and watercraft
lotte and Sarasota counties had a defi- strikes.
IT HASN’T BEEN A GOOD YEAR nite effect. The official count of red tide
deaths statewide — including those
In the Florida Keys, the numbers
are still tragic, but nowhere near the
confirmed and suspected — stands at highest in the state. In 2018, there
206, with one month left to report. Last were 25, most in the Upper Keys,
year, the number was 67. But that’s except two in Marathon and two in Key
not as bad as 2013, when the red tide West. In 2017, there were 17 reported
manatee deaths climbed to 277. manatee deaths. Of the 17 deaths, six
According to Mote Marine Labora- were from undetermined causes, two
tory, red tide is to blame for 10 percent manatees were never recovered, four
of manatee deaths when averaged were perinatal and five were from boat
over 10 years. According to an article strikes.
published on Mote Marine’s website, Every year, boat strikes are
that number jumps to 30 percent dur- responsible for about 20 percent of
ing bloom years. manatee deaths, except in abnormal
The manatees that expire from red years with red tide, which skews the
tide are categorized as “natural; other” statistic.
deaths. Of course, manatees expire for
U.S. FISH & WILDLIFE SERVICE/Contributed
RESCUE & RELEASE
Twin 2-year-old manatees named Millennium (male)
and Falcon (female) were released back into the water
off Key Largo about three weeks ago. The siblings were
rescued in October 2016 by Dolphin Research Center
and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
after their mother, a well-known manatee named Bon-
nie, was killed by a boat strike. After their rescue, the
young calves were transported to Miami Seaquarium
for their initial care. They were then transferred to
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio to grow up a
little. In September 2018, they returned to Miami to
begin acclimation to ambient water temperatures, sea
grass and other things in preparation for their release.
Now weighing about 600 pounds each, the manatees
were outfitted with satellite tracking tags. Their condi-
tion and progress will be monitored for the next few
months to ensure that they are thriving.
— Contributed
But there’s good news, too. There “The current approach is simply
have been 118 manatees rescued so to give palliative care and wait for
far this year, 66 of which have been them to clear the toxin and get better,”
WHAT TO DO … released. Most of the sea cows had Rein said in a Mote report. “This new
suffered a boat strike, but plenty get treatment could accelerate the healing
If you see a sick, injured, dead tangled in crab traps or monofilament process.”
or tagged manatee, get on the or some type of manmade structure The FWC has an entire department
horn immediately. Call the FWC’s like a culvert. dedicated to manatee research, includ-
Wildlife Alert Toll-Free Number Mote Marine immunology expert ing tracking and counting the popula-
888-404-FWCC (888-404-3922) or Cathy Walsh and FIU chemist Kathleen tion, and trying to develop some type
cellular phone customers can call Rein are studying how to treat red of technology to reduce boat strikes.
*FWC or #FWC. tide sickness in the sea cow. Accord- Two years ago, the U.S. Fish and
ing to Mote, the team will study the Wildlife Service changed the manatee
effectiveness of certain antioxidants as status from endangered to threatened.
opposed to the current treatment of
anti-inflammatories.UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018 COMMUNITY NEWS 17
TOSS IT OUT
Islamorada sets hazardous waste disposal
T
his weekend, Islamorada residents can safely dispose of haz-
ardous household waste locally.
On Friday, Dec. 14 and Saturday, Dec. 15, Islamorada
residents may take household hazardous waste to a special
drop-off location at Founders Park (MM 87 bayside). The drop-off loca-
tion will be set up near the south park entrance behind the Adminis-
trative Center parking lot. Drop-off hours will be 9 a.m. to noon both
days.
The event is one of four per year that Islamorada provides. The
collection is an effort to remove hazardous materials from the waste
stream and to provide proper disposal.
Household waste materials include bottles or cans of flammable
liquid fuel and chlorine bottles, liquid poison, flammable solids, aero-
sol, corrosive materials, liquid or solid oxidizers, pesticides or herbi-
cides, cyanides or sulfides, dry cell alkaline batteries, lead acid batter-
ies, used non-contaminated oils, anti-freeze, latex paints, PCB liquids,
BCB ballasts, non-regulated soaps, polishes and similar materials,
contaminated oil solvents, oil-based paints and thinners, and tires off
the rim that do not exceed a light duty SUV.
NEW MEMBERS
Computer, electronic and lighting waste from the home is accept-
ed at the drop-off days and throughout the year. Contact Advanced
Disposal to schedule a free residential roadside pickup of household
electronics. Pickups are made within five working days
Residential used motor oil also is accepted throughout the year.
Up to five gallons may be dropped off at the Advanced Disposal local
Rotary Club initiates two
office, 86490 Overseas Highway, from 8 a.m. to noon. The Upper Keys Rotary Club adds two new members at
The household hazardous waste days are provided for Islamo- its weekly luncheon on Dec. 11. Marty McGreevy, left,
rada’s residential solid waste customers. transferred his membership from Perdido Key upon
Commercial customers must contact Advanced Disposal to ar- retiring to the Keys. Chris Ward, right, is a Coral Shores
range for proper disposal of hazardous materials. graduate who owns the Sea Tow operations between
The drop-off days are usually the second consecutive Friday and Tavernier and Marathon. The Upper Keys Rotary Club,
Saturday in March, June, September and December. The dates for led by president Terry Abel, center, produces the Gigantic
2019 will be posted in January. More information is available from Nautical Flea Market and raises hundreds of thousands
the Advanced Disposal office at 305-853-3433 or IslamoradaFL@Ad- of dollars for local scholarships every year. JASON KOLER/
vancedDisposal.com or from the Islamorada Public Works Department Keys Weekly
at 305-852-6933 or public.works@islamorada.fl.us.
—Contributed18 STUDENT OF THE WEEK UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018
Untangle Your Finances The Upper Keys Weekly is proud to partner with
Island Christian faculty and students in choos-
ing “The Student of the Week.” Recipients are
chosen on qualifications including academic
standing, athletics, outstanding achievements,
community involvement, individuality and moral
fortitude. We thank our future leaders and ICS
for allowing us to share in a weekly dose of
“Eagle Pride” and for giving us a glimpse into
their world.
Who is your all-time favorite
teacher and why? I have way too
many favorite teachers, but my
favorite high school teacher has
to be Mr. Roper.
DIANA VELIZAROFF
JUNIOR
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What is the dumbest rule at
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3022 N. Roosevelt Blvd., in Big Pine at MM30 can’t have colorful jackets. The
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or in Marathon at MM53.5 Gulfside. Mobile App best rule is that we can go on our
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terms and conditions. Our local military and everyone who lives or works in the Florida Keys and their families are welcome to join. What is something you know
now that you didn’t know when
you were a freshman? ICS is a
2018-2019 PERFORMING SEASON revolving door of people.
What organizations and activi-
ties are you involved with at
ICS and why are they important
to you? Key Club, so I can help
people.
What are your plans after high
school? I know I want to go to
college, but I don’t know what for
or where.
What is one favorite way to
FREE OUTDOOR BAND CONCERT • 4PM spend your spare time? Reading
Saturday, Dec. 15
or petting my dogs.
Will you make the Keys your
permanent home? Why or why
Holiday
not? I don’t know about my per-
manent home, but if I were ever
rich enough, I would love to get a
Suite Treats second home here.
What three things would you
Guest Performers: Burton Ringers A
SANTer like to accomplish before your
e!
will be th 10-year reunion? Graduate from
ICE Amphitheater college, know what I want to do
with my life and have a group of
at Founders Park, Islamorada • Bayside, MM 87
people who will stay in my life for
Free Admission • Outdoors: Bring a Blanket or Lawn Chair a long time.
Fun-filled Family Entertainment
— New Band Members Welcome —
Co-sponsored by the Parks and Recreation Department, Village of
Islamorada, with support from Islamorada Community Entertainment
305-451-4530 • w w w . k e y s c o m m u n i t y c o n c e r t b a n d . o r gUPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018 19
Now offering
Dockside
Cakes
U N D E R N E W L O C A L F A M I LY OW N E R S H I P
Not Your Typical Flower Shop
Come check out our unique gift selection for
all the special people on your holiday list!
Monday - Friday 9AM-5PM, Saturday 9AM-1PM
99551 Overseas Highway • Key Largo, Fl 33037
www.keylargoflorist.com • 305 451-3702
Key Largo
Christmas at your
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Get everything you need
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gift ideas for everyone on your
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Find us at
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101499 Overseas Hwy
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305 451-501720 ADVERTISEMENT UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018
Christopher Elwell
“I think the design is just perfect for
this unique development. The buyers
will be the ones enjoying an inside and
outside lifestyle to include boating,
swimming, and relaxing at the end of
a long, fun day. The interior design
will allow them to be very proud of
their interior design, yet feel casual
The Most Exclusive
enough to relax and put their feet up
when need be.” Luxury Properties in
The Florida Keys
I
n a place renowned for its luxurious vacation homes,
the developers of The Reserve at Sombrero Beach
have upped the ante by requesting the services of
esteemed designer, Christopher Elwell, owner of Royal
Furniture and Design.
With his extensive background dating back to 1990,
Elwell has designed, remodeled, and repositioned
thousands of homes throughout the Florida Keys, Key
West and the country. Known for his can-do attitude and amazing
attention to detail, Christopher has been a long sought- after designer
for owners looking for a visionary’s touch.
Mr. Elwell was tasked with not only the interior design but identifying
“the vision” for the Elysium Residence, located at 449 Sombrero Beach
Rd; the first Estate Villa being offered at The Reserve. (“Elysium”)
meaning Paradise and the tone setter for Elwell’s vision, Christopher
explains, “by choosing a ‘Coastal Chic’ design, I thought ‘you’re in
paradise’ and I want you to feel that, not only outside your home, but
also continue that feeling inside. We are bringing the outside in and
taking advantage of the amazing views of the water and the lush
landscaping.”
When you pull up to The Reserve at Sombrero Beach, the developers
want you to expect something spectacular. The furniture, all selected by
Royal Furniture and Design, is a mixture of upholstered fabric pieces,
distressed woods in multiple finishes and some brushed metal accents.
It feels very coastal chic, elegant, yet comfortable.
Elwell says, “I think the design is just perfect for this unique develop-
ment. The buyers will be the ones enjoying an inside and outside
lifestyle to include boating, swimming, and relaxing at the end of a
long, fun day. The interior will allow them to be very proud of their
interior design, yet feel casual enough to relax and put their feet up
when need be. The coastal chic décor will make them feel comfortable
and relaxed whether they are entertaining friends or using the home
themselves.”
The developer of The Reserve declares, “We are very excited to have
Chris working on the Elysium Residence and know how extremely
talented he is at walking into a completely empty room and transform-
ing it into a great livable space. Given his background with homes in the
Keys, we knew he would be a perfect fit, and would be able to give our
clients exactly the comfort and aesthetic level they are looking for when
buying in the Keys.”
The Reserve at Sombrero Beach | TheNewHomeSpot.comUPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018 21
Elysium
THE
RESIDENCE
305.735.4682
MARATHON, FL
Professionally Designed and Furnished
by Christopher Elwell.
Concrete Block & Steel Construction
Minutes from Sombrero Beach
Unobstructed Water View
Private Boat Dock
Private Pool
Private Elevator
5 Bed | 5 Bath | 2,576 sq.ft.
New Construction, Gated Community,
Vacation Rentals Allowed.
$1.25 M (fully furnished)
449 Sombrero Beach Road, Marathon, FL | TheNewHomeSpot.com22 SEEN AROUND TOWN UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018
HOLIDAY
SPIRIT
Crowd packs park
for festivities
JIM McCARTHY
jim@keysweekly.com
T
he forecast for Dec. 7 at
Founders Park held up, be-
tween the snow, the activity
and the holiday spirit that
filled the bazaar. The 14th annual 1
Islamorada Chamber of Commerce
Holiday Fest saw many families and
children enjoying the activities —
notably the snow mountain that 2
featured 30 tons of cold white stuff.
Children flocked to the snow pile,
climbing to the top, sliding down
and making snowballs. Parents
stood around the mountain, watch-
ing and recording their children
having a blast. The evening also fea-
tured the lighting of the 35-foot tree,
the parade with the theme “Holiday
Magic and Wonder” and pictures
with Santa. Activities included a gin-
gerbread house contest, crafts, face
painting, a Santa Paws pet parade,
Mister Gingerbread Man and Miss
Sugarplum Fairy contests and per-
formances by students of On Your
Toes Dance Studio.
JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly
1. Festival-goers were dressed for the
holidays, including Chip and Joanne
Futch and their dog Carly.
2. Children flock to one of the festival’s
main attractions: the snow mountain.
3. A young girl throws a snowball at the
snowman target along the beach.
4. Children get their Christmas wishes 3 4
in to Santa Claus, who was busy all eve-
ning listening and posing for pictures.
5. Children pick out holiday treats at the
candy apple tent.
5UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018 23
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Saturday, January 19
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Thank You
Riva Watersports for the
wonderful BBQ & Chili
Throwdown event that
benefitted Treasure Village
Montessori and brought so
many smiles to all the kids
who attended.
Together we will reach our
fundraising goals and
provide wonderful
extensions for our
students in the classroom.24 FISHING UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018
COOL AND WARM Action reminiscent of years before 2010
D
ecember has been interesting so far; we’ve had cold winter-
A snook catch./ MATT
like fronts followed by hot summer days with slicked off
BELLINGER/Keys Weekly
calm sea conditions. And the mix of fish out there will amaze
any fisherman. This “Between Time” offers great opportuni-
ties for those wanting a little bit of everything.
Cooler water temps in the backcountry of Florida Bay have ush-
ered in an incredible influx of redfish and snook! I’m getting reports
from area guides and locals alike that the action is reminiscent of the
action from before 2010. It has become the norm to hear of catches
CAPT. MATT in the range of 30 to 50 snook or redfish on bait and fly tackle and the
BELLINGER really wonderful thing to hear is that these fish are in the juvenile size
range of 12 to 18 inches.
is owner and
operator of
This is very encouraging news to hear. This push of new fish to
Bamboo Charters the area holds hope for the future of Florida Bay. Let’s pray that water
Dreams do come true when out fishing.
in Islamorada. conditions are healthy enough for them to stay and prosper.
Bellinger has a live Sea trout fishing has been up and down in that they’ve not been in
fishing report that their usual haunts and that their size has been up and down. The bait
airs daily on three
radio shows on
of choice right now is live shrimp and soft plastics that mimic shrimp in
two stations in the size or shape. The island moats around the backcountry are very pro-
Florida Keys. ductive and working around the island until you hook up has been the
plan. The gear you’ll need is simple. I use a 7-foot, 8-12 pound spin-
ning set up with a Daiwa BG 3500 reel spooled up with Spider Wire
Invisa braid 10-pound line. My terminal tackle is 3 feet of 30 pounds
mono or fluorocarbon leader with a quarter to three-eighths ounce
chartreuse jig head ties on. This is my go-to setup for the backcountry
until we are looking to tussle with sharks and tarpon; that’s when the
big sticks come out and we get medieval on these beasts!
This time of year the waters of the Gulf of Mexico get going strong.
The Spanish mackerel show up as well as cobia, pompano, sharks and
all types of snapper. The bite is easy to find and all it takes is setting
up a chum slick into the current in 8-12 feet of water and start chuckin’
jigs tipped with shrimp into the slick. It really is simple; if, after 20
minutes or so, you’ve not been jumped by an angry pile of fish, make a
move. The areas around the Banks like Sprigger, Schooner and Oxfoot
hold fish all winter; it’s as easy as looking for a cluster of a few boats
anchored up and then setting up a respectable distance from them A sea trout catch.
and their chum slick.
Bluewater and reef action is a wild mix right now on the Atlantic
side of the island chain. The reef is on fire right now with all the snap-
per action you want and don’t be surprised when a fired-up electric
blue sailfish crashes the party going on in your chum slick! The baitfish
that show up are going to offer an easy target to these speedsters and
you need to be ready. The majority of the action will be in that body
of water between the 20- and 200-foot depths. This corridor is like a
bait conveyor belt and wahoo, sailfish, kings, tuna and dolphin will be
working it hard.
A trout catch.You can also read
