The Middle Keys triple up on boat parades each December, and this year was no exception, with three lighted processions closing out each night of by far the busiest holiday weekend in Marathon. Vessels braved high winds and iffy conditions to light the night in three of the best December staples, with all-out displays ranging from blazing multicolored arrays to dolphins, sleighs and even a massive turtle shell.
WINNERS & NEWS
Duck Key – Dec. 13
Best in Class (over 28 feet): “Dirty Pool” – T&T Pools.
Best in Class (under 28 feet): “Santa’s Going Fishing” – Dean and Jennie Nowak.
The parade raised $500 in contributions from Duck Key Fishing Club members for the Coast Guard Foundation.
Boot Key – Dec. 14
Best in Class (over 30 feet): “Huntress” – R.D. and Erika Goodman.
Runner Up (over 30 feet): “Vicious Cycle” – Danielle Lebo/Flowers by J&J.
Best in Class (under 30 feet): “Picatso” – Greg and Jennifer Garner.
Runner Up (under 30 feet): “Esmeralda” – Allan Mertsock.
Judges’ Picks: “Boater’s World;” “Last Choice” – Jim Simcic; “Ana Banana” – Joseph Brandenburg; “S.S. Pops Two Conchs” – Tim O’Connell; “Rapid Fire” – Bill Sherman.
Key Colony Beach – Dec. 15
Bah Humbug Award: KCB Marina – Scott Stanfield.
Most Festive Crew: “Pearl Dive Team” – Alex Rickert.
Kids’ Choice: “Dirty Pool” – Terry and Kim Womble.
Most Creative: “Vicious Cycle” – Paul Lebo.
Most Eco-Friendly: Sidney Owen.
Judges’ Favorite: “Picatso” – Greg and Jennifer Garner.
Best Traditional Display: Two Conchs/Jack Ryan.
Best Light Display: Coco’s Boat Rentals – Chelsea Hilsabeck.
