The Center Keys triple up on boat parades every December, and this 12 months was no exception, with three lighted processions closing out every evening of by far the busiest vacation weekend in Marathon. Vessels braved excessive winds and iffy circumstances to gentle the evening in three of one of the best December staples, with all-out shows starting from blazing multicolored arrays to dolphins, sleighs and even an enormous turtle shell.
WINNERS & NEWS
Duck Key – Dec. 13
Greatest in Class (over 28 toes): “Soiled Pool” – T&T Swimming pools.
Greatest in Class (below 28 toes): “Santa’s Going Fishing” – Dean and Jennie Nowak.
The parade raised $500 in contributions from Duck Key Fishing Membership members for the Coast Guard Basis.
Boot Key – Dec. 14
Greatest in Class (over 30 toes): “Huntress” – R.D. and Erika Goodman.
Runner Up (over 30 toes): “Vicious Cycle” – Danielle Lebo/Flowers by J&J.
Greatest in Class (below 30 toes): “Picatso” – Greg and Jennifer Garner.
Runner Up (below 30 toes): “Esmeralda” – Allan Mertsock.
Judges’ Picks: “Boater’s World;” “Final Selection” – Jim Simcic; “Ana Banana” – Joseph Brandenburg; “S.S. Pops Two Conchs” – Tim O’Connell; “Fast Fireplace” – Invoice Sherman.
Key Colony Seashore – Dec. 15
Bah Humbug Award: KCB Marina – Scott Stanfield.
Most Festive Crew: “Pearl Dive Staff” – Alex Rickert.
Children’ Selection: “Soiled Pool” – Terry and Kim Womble.
Most Artistic: “Vicious Cycle” – Paul Lebo.
Most Eco-Pleasant: Sidney Owen.
Judges’ Favourite: “Picatso” – Greg and Jennifer Garner.
Greatest Conventional Show: Two Conchs/Jack Ryan.
Greatest Mild Show: Coco’s Boat Leases – Chelsea Hilsabeck.