Upper Keys Weekly 24-0118 by Keys Weekly Newspapers

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Marked safe from any wintry weather.

January 18, 2024

FLIGHT TO NEW YORK

Injured osprey lands a new home | P. 12

COMBATING ILLEGAL VACATION RENTALS Tax collector lauds strong enforcement | P. 4 BOAT MANIA Annual show features premier brands | P. 6

Houston, We have a Rocket Air Problem. • Big corporations are buying up local familyowned Keys businesses and bussing their employees in from the mainland • Rex Air is a local family-owned business that provides local affordable housing for its employees Rex Houston, Owner

87805 Overseas Hwy., Islamorada State License RA13067300 | County License AC427A

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 18, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 18, 2024

KEY LARGO | $8,999,000 | LISTING ID: 607375

Nothing compares to finding hidden treasures.

This unicorn oceanfront estate is a breathtaking sanctuary nestled in the Florida Keys. Beyond a private gate lies a drive-through with acres of preserved nature, leading you to your private island—a haven that once captivated Budd Post, the visionary engineer behind the iconic Card Sound Road connecting Miami to The Keys. Marvel at 360-degree views from the extended decks or unwind beneath the tiki, perched at the water's edge, offering the perfect vantage point to reflect on a day spent exploring the untouched waters of the Florida Keys by boat. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this concrete masterpiece is designed to withstand the most extreme weather conditions, ensuring durability without compromising on elegance. Three bedrooms, each with en-suite bathrooms, offer comfort and privacy. The expansive 130+ feet of concrete dockage is an impressive feature, providing ample space for your maritime pursuits. Whether you're an avid boater or wish to enjoy the serenity of waterfront living, this property caters to your every desire. Additionally, this exceptional home includes an adjacent canal-front lot, further enhancing the potential for your dream coastal lifestyle. Seize the opportunity to own a piece of paradise where luxury meets nature and where every day brings a new chapter of coastal living in the enchanting Florida Keys.

81888 Overseas Highway | Islamorada 305.712.8888 | oceansir.com Each office is independently owned and operated.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 18, 2024

KEYS

NEWSPAPERS

91760 Overseas Hwy. Tavernier, FL 33070 Office: 305.363.2957 www.keysweekly.com Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com Editor / Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Digital Editor / Gwen Filosa gwen@keysweekly.com Director of Sales Manuela Carrillo Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com Business Development Jill Miranda Baker jill@keysweekly.com Staff Writers Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com Production Manager Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com Design / Pre-Press Diana Striker www.keysweekly.com Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844 Se habla español THE UPPER KEYS WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials. Postmaster SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO THE KEYS WEEKLY, 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050 News Deadline Monday Noon Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m. @KeysWeekly @theWeekly Members of

10,000

Television ads for the jaw-dropping Royal Caribbean cruise ship “Icon of the Seas” have aired for months. On Jan. 10, the largest cruise ship in the world arrived for trips to the eastern and western Caribbean. The $2 billion cruise ship can hold 10,000 people. Prices for a single person begin at $1,700.

A young osprey rescued last April by Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation is transported to the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center in Tavernier. The bird suffered an injury that affected its ability to take flight. Read more on page 12. CONTRIBUTED

TAX COLLECTOR TAKES AIM AT FRAUDULENT VACATION RENTALS Failure to pay this tax could lead to liens and even jail time KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL www.keysweekly.com

onroe County Tax Collector Sam Steele is used to being lied to; it comes with the territory. “It’s hard to believe everything that’s said to you, especially being a government official, because people say whatever they can to not pay something,” Steele said. That’s why since taking office, Steele has stepped up public outreach efforts to clear up any ambiguity when it comes to local tax obligations for properties being rented for six months or less. Besides giving presentations to community organizations about the required tourist development tax, or bed tax as it is sometimes called, Steele has also taken out newspaper advertisements, increased his office’s social media presence, and taken to the radio airwaves. “We’re trying to inform and educate property owners as much as possible,” said Steele, who took the reins of the Monroe County Tax Collector’s office in 2021 at the age of 33, becoming the youngest tax collector to be elected in Monroe County’s history. Steele is currently the youngest tax collector in Florida. Like other popular tourist destinations, Monroe County has seen an increase in properties being used as vacation rentals. But many property owners either don’t understand the local tax obligations, or simply choose to ignore them. Last year, along with their property tax bills, Monroe County property owners received a color brochure titled “A Guide to Tourist Development Tax,” detailing rental requirements for property owners and managers. “In the past our office used to send out this one-page orange flier that didn’t have quite as much infor-

Monroe County Tax Collector Sam Steele holds up a copy of the ‘Guide to Tourist Development Tax.’ Steele created the brochure last year and sent it to all property owners in Monroe County along with their tax bills. CONTRIBUTED

mation on there,” Steele said. The new brochure explains, in detail, state and local tax obligations for short-term rental properties; 7.5% sales tax must be remitted to the Florida Department of Revenue, another 5% in tourist development tax (TDT) must be remitted to the Monroe County tax collector. “We’re very lenient with other things,” Steele said. “Tourist development tax is one thing we’re very firm on. We have a very strict policy.” In fiscal year 2022, a whopping $90 million in TDT was collected in Monroe County. Fiscal year 2023 saw a decline of $9 million, with $81 million being collected. “I think there’s going to be a downward trend. I don’t know how fast it’s going to go,” predicted Steele. Besides widely distributing the brochures, Steele also uses a software

program called RentalScape to identify rental properties not in compliance with TDT requirements. The software cross-references and mines information from roughly 80 different online platforms, including VRBO and Airbnb, Steele says it works. “When these property owners try to say ‘I just started renting a week ago’ and we find out that they’ve been renting for over a year, I have no leniency for them,” said Steele. When noncompliant rentals are identified, Monroe County certified fraud examiner Pamela Sellers rolls up her sleeves. “Once you’re on my radar, there’s no getting around paying back taxes,” said Sellers, adding the tax collector’s office can go back 36 months to recover unpaid taxes. CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 18, 2024

GETTING THE CONVERSATION STARTED Marathon request for building allocations, hurricane evacuation change meets county opposition ALEX RICKERT

alex@keysweekly.com

draft of a bill that could provide up to 8,000 new building allocations to the Florida Keys, written by Marathon City Manager George Garrett and submitted to state Rep. Jim Mooney, seems to have accomplished its goal of “starting the conversation” on future development in the Keys – but not without drawing the ire of some officials and residents throughout the island chain. The resolutions At its Jan. 9 meeting, the Marathon City Council passed resolution 202401 on consent, intended to outline the city’s stance on changes of statutes governing mandatory hurricane evacuation times in the Florida Keys Area of Critical State Concern – and the resulting building allocations that could be bestowed on the island chain, should that mandatory clearance time

increase. The resolution includes the city’s support for adding the Keys’ mobile homes to Phase 1 of hurricane evacuations (48 hours in advance of a storm) and Key West residents not living in mobile homes to Phase 2 (24 hours). At the council’s Dec. 12, 2023 session, City Attorney Steve Williams advised the council to pursue as many additional allocations as possible from the state to use in the Building Permit Allocation System as a defense against takings cases from property owners of vacant but otherwise buildable lots. Recent estimates from Marathon city staff indicate that the city has 1,026 vacant lots, including 556 buildable lots and 215 waterfront properties. The city’s final BPAS allocations will expire in July 2024, but it currently holds applications for 81 market rate and 40 affordable allocations, 48 of which have reached a point that they

could request to use the city’s 12 remaining Administrative Relief allocations. “When the day ever comes that you don’t have a (BPAS) permit to give out, you can go on the record and say, ‘Dear state of Florida, please defend this, because we asked for all the units we could and you said no to us,’” he said. However, Resolution 2024-01 contains only general provisions seeking a remedy for potential takings cases, simply urging the Legislature to “collectively and collaboratively work with Monroe County and other municipalities this year and during this Legislative Session to develop a Legislative solution to the continuation of BPAS (ROGO) and the cessation of the ‘takings’ dilemma.” As predicted by Williams in December, Marathon’s third provision contrasts a portion of a resolution passed Dec. 13 by the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners. While supportive of the same Key West and mobile home provisions in hurricane evacuation changes, the county resolution instead asks the legislature to

“hold off on any further related actions until the public has time to consider the related issues and make thoughtful recommendations.” Monroe County Mayor Holly Raschein repeated that the county was not “under the gun,” stressing the need for greater collaboration among municipalities, and further analysis of environmental and infrastructure concerns as well as total liabilities, before pursuing a legislative goal in the 2025 state session. Commissioner Craig Cates said he hoped to take the question of additional allocations to a voter referendum, whether binding or not, in the November 2024 election. Addressing the county commission in December, Williams said Marathon would seek “as many units as necessary to cover our takings exposure,” but would not seek to receive all the units immediately, stretching a distribution over a period of up to 50 years. Acknowledging the need to “go to Tallahassee with one voice,” Williams added that “(Marathon) run(s) out (of units) in 2024. … Our takings cases ripen before yours do.” Visit keysweekly.com for the full story

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 18, 2024

EST. 1998

BOATING BONANZA

Annual show displays the premier brands JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

#MANGROVIN 6Am - 2Pm daily 305-664-8022

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ustling with on-the-water activities — and known as the sportfishing capital — Islamorada will again serve as the destination for a three-day boat show this weekend. Boat dealers from the Florida Keys and South Florida will descend upon the grounds of Islamorada’s Island Community Church, ready to feature their best boats during the annual Island Boat Show. Beginning Friday, Jan. 19 and concluding Sunday, Jan. 21, boating fanatics and the public will get the chance to get a close look at the hottest vessels on the market all while enjoying food, music and other activities. All available boat spaces for the show are sold out, said Annie Reckwerdt, event organizer. “We have more boats this year,” she said, noting that last year’s show welcomed around 100 boats. For years, Hawk’s Cay Resort on Duck Key served as the venue for the annual event organized by Island Community Church. Last year, the boat show committee decided to make a move to Islamorada. It proved to be a worthwhile venue change, as Reckwerdt said attendance was the best they’d ever seen. For the second straight year, boats ranging from small fishing skiffs to large offshore center consoles will be situated on the church grounds, located at 83400 Overseas Highway. Some of the boat brands featured at this year’s show are Contender, World Cat, Grady White, Pathfinder, Carolina Skiff and Boston Whaler. Caribee Boat Sales & Marina, SD Marine Group, Plantation Boat Mart, Sea Hunter, Tiki Water Sports and Seven Sports Marine are some

Top: More than 90 boats were parked on the grounds of Island Community Church at the 2023 boat show. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO. Above: A father and son from Miami climb off a World Cat boat.

BOAT SHOW TIMES Friday, Jan. 19: 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 20: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 21: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

of the local boat vendors in attendance during the three-day boat extravaganza. A number of marine vendors will also be on hand, including Stanz Fishing, Wave Armor, Tri Sea Stabilizers and Bayside Yacht Maintenance. A full list of vendors is at islandboatshow.com. Attendees can also bid on silent auction items, participate in raffles for tackle and merchandise and sign up for boating and fishing seminars. Food trucks and live music will be available during the three days. Entry to the show is $10 per person. Free parking is available onsite. Proceeds support the Island Community Church’s missions and scholarships for local graduating seniors and college students.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 18, 2024

8 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

“We do have teeth when it comes to enforcement on fraudulent vacation rentals.” — Sam Steele, Monroe County Tax Collector

“The burden of proof is always on the taxpayer,” she said. Between April and October 2023, countywide, Steele’s office, with the help of RentalScape, collected $432,076 in back taxes, penalties and interest. A large portion of the money recovered came from Marathon. Steele said that was the result of collaboration between the city and the his office. “Pamela and I met with the City of Marathon and requested them to add a requirement on their vacation rental application for property owners to provide their TDT account number,” Steele said. The requirement resulted in 147 fraudulent properties being identified and brought into compliance and $335,159 in back taxes, penalties and interest collected. “We do have teeth when it comes to enforcement on fraudulent vacation rentals,” Steele continued. “We’ve had a couple of people who have actually done jail time over it,” he added. “We can take them to circuit court and order their books, which we have done,” added Sellers. The tax collector’s office has the authority to place liens on non-compliant properties and to freeze bank accounts. Many believe the proliferation of short-term rentals has contributed to the affordable housing crisis across Monroe County. In the near future, those paying their fair share in TDT may soon be part of the solution. “I know the county is approaching legislation in session this year to get the ability to use tourist development tax for affordable housing,” said Steele. Suspected fraudulent rentals can be reported anonymously to Steele’s office by calling 855-4224540 or via email to rentalfraud@ monroetaxcollector.com. Steele notes that emails are considered public record and may be subject to public disclosure.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 18, 2024

COUNCIL SUPPORTS ‘RATE CORRECTION’ FOR NEW GARBAGE COMPANY JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

slamorada’s new trash hauler is seeking a commercial rate correction related to rolloff compactor services. Jan. 1 marked the official start for Island Disposal Company (IDC) as the village’s garbage pickup service. Homes received new, larger IDC bins in the leadup to the transition away from Waste Management, which serviced the village through Dec. 31, 2023. Last year, the council chose to forgo a contract extension with Waste Management and send trash service out to a competitive bid. The village initially entered into a contract with Advanced Disposal in 2014. Waste Management acquired Advanced Disposal in 2020. In June, the council picked IDC as the next hauler for trash, recyclables and yard waste for village residents and businesses. A contract approved last July spans 10 years with an option to renew an additional five years after it expires Dec. 31, 2033. The village pays IDC roughly $492 a year per residential customer for waste collection. Brian Lindback, IDC owner, said he wanted to clarify commercial pricing for the non-rolloff compactor rate of $49 per cubic yard, per month, and the rolloff compactor rate of $121.77 per cubic yard, per month. A contract approved by the council in July detailed a garbage compactor rate of $49 per cubic yard, but didn’t include the non-rolloff rate. Lindback said IDC will keep the $49 rate for a 2-6-yard compactor. “There’s a compactor that can be picked up by the regular truck that goes out and picks up commercial routes,” he said. Rolloff requires a different truck and driver to go out once a week, according to Lindback. “It’s a lot heavier and more to do; that’s why the rate is higher,” he said. Council verbally supported the rate correction following an explanation by Finance Director Maria Bassett and Lindback at a Jan. 9 meeting. A resolution is expected to come before the council next month to outline in the contract rolloff compactor services of $121.77 per cubic yard. Bassett said the new rate is consistent with proposals from other garbage companies, Waste Manage-

An Island Disposal Company truck picks up recyclables from residential homes in Islamorada. KEYS WEEKLY PHOTO

ment and Atlantic Trash & Transfer, which vied for the garbage contract last year. Lindback said the new rate

would affect three commercial customers.

BRIEFLY Trap line repurposing class at Islamorada library Discarded trap lines, commonly found along Keys shorelines, and in garbage cans, can be repurposed into door mats. Francois Labossiere, a Bahia Honda State Park seasonal volunteer, will guide you in a repurposing class at the Islamorada library. Classes are scheduled for Tuesday through Thursday, January 23-25, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The class is free and all supplies are provided. Register for the class by stopping by the Islamorada library branch at 81830 Overseas Highway or calling 305-664-4645. For more information about events at the library, go to keyslibraries.org/islamorada. Homeowner associations meeting on Jan. 22 The Island of Key Largo Federation of Homeowner Associations will be holding its general membership meeting Monday, Jan. 22 at the Key Largo Library Community Room, 101485 Overseas Highway, at 6 p.m. The meeting can be attended in person or via Zoom (see QR code). The speaker will be Melody Tuschel, Monroe County’s solid waste outreach and recycling coordinator. She will give the community an update on how to dispose of household hazardous waste and e-waste, how to recycle and protect wildlife, and about proper

waste containers. The meeting is open to the public. Sheriff: Two arrested in Upper Keys burglaries A 23-year-old man and a 17-yearold male — both of Tavernier — were arrested Jan. 11 for burglary. Saylor Dominic DiMartino was also charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor and resisting arrest. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office began investigating a bicycle theft on Bee Street in Islamorada on Dec. 17, 2023, as well as several vehicle burglaries in Plantation Key Colony neighborhood, on the same date. The cases remain under investigation. Further charges may be pending. Final event scheduled for sailfish tournament The final leg of the three-event Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship Series, the Cheeca Lodge Presidential Sailfish Tournament, is scheduled Friday through Sunday, Jan. 19-21, in Islamorada. Kickoff for “The Presidential” is set for Friday, Jan. 19, at Cheeca Lodge and includes a welcome cocktail party, angler registration, rules meeting and beach banquet. Saturday and Sunday, anglers test their light-tackle skills with 20-pound or less line to wrestle the high-flying acrobatic sailfish, known for tail-walking the waves. Only circle hooks can be used. Fishing is scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 18, 2024

HOW’S THIS SOUND: JIMMY BUFFETT MEMORIAL HIGHWAY State lawmakers want to honor music legend with A1A naming and license plate GWEN FILOSA gwen@keysweekly.com

lorida lawmakers want to honor the late singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett by christening State Road A1A the Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway. The bill reads: “All of those portions (of State Road A1A) located in Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, Brevard, Volusia, Flagler, St. Johns, Duval and Nassau counties,” would be named after Buffett, who died Sept. 1, 2023, at age 76. The bill had its first reading on Jan. 10. An identical bill was filed in the state Senate. A Senate filing says the renaming would cost the state $23,400. State Rep. Chuck Clemons, a Republican from Newberry, proposed “an honorary designation” to stamp Buffett’s name on the iconic coastal highway that spans 340 miles from Fernandina Beach down to Key West, where an unknown Buffett lived in the 1970s. Though Buffett was born in Mississippi and raised in Alabama, Florida is where he created a new genre, now dubbed “Trop Rock,” with party anthems like “Fins,” “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere,” and “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” along with introspective ballads “Come Monday,” and “Son of a Son of a Sailor.” Buffett’s 1974 album, “A1A” includes “A Pirate Looks at 40, “Trying to Reason With Hurricane Season” and “Tin Cup Chalice.” When it was released, Buffett released this note: “A1A is the beach access road that runs occasionally on and off U.S. 1. It can take you to some of the prettiest beaches in Florida east of St. Augustine, right through the middle of ‘Wrinkle City,’ better known as Miami Beach, and ending suddenly 90 miles north of Havana and four blocks from my house.” If approved this legislative session, the law would order the Florida Department of Transportation to put up road signs designating the Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway by Aug. 30.

Jimmy Buffett performed in Key West in recent years. FLORIDA KEYS NEWS BUREAU/ Contributed

Buffett went on to build a fortune with his Margaritaville brand, inspired by his humble beginnings in Key West. In his last four years, Buffett struggled with Merkel cell skin cancer, according to the obituary on the singer’s website. But he didn’t disclose his illness publicly and continued performing. Seven months before his death, Buffett and the Coral Reefer Band played four shows in Key West, including two intimate concerts at the Key West Theater. “Jimmy was love,” his wife Jane wrote in an online message to the public days after Buffett died. “Every cell in his body was filled with joy. He smiled all the time, even when he was deeply ill. And his sense of humor never wavered. Jimmy was always the optimist, always twinkling, always making us laugh.” ‘Margaritaville’ license plate In addition to the A1A proposal, state lawmakers will consider creating a “Margaritaville” speciality license plate, after the name of his signature and most successful single. If approved, the Florida Margaritaville plate would cost a driver $25 per year. Proceeds from the plates would go to Singing For Change, a nonprofit Buffett founded in 1995 that supports small and large nonprofits to help people living in poverty “achieve sustainable self-sufficiency through vibrant, diverse communities,” according to its mission statement. The nonprofit’s website quotes Buffett as having said, “Have fun, make money and leave the world a better place.” The state Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles estimates adding the speciality plate will cost $7,680. If approved, it would take effect Oct. 1.

Islamorada, Village of Islands INVITATION TO BID 28-FOOT BOAT AND TRAILER FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT DEPARTMENT (ITB 24-01) Bid Submittal Deadline: 3:00 p.m. February 14, 2024 Islamorada, Village of Islands is seeking formal bids for the purchase and delivery of a 28-foot boat and a trailer for use by Village Law Enforcement Officers. Specifications for the new vessel and equipment are provided in Section VII of the Invitation to Bid document. To be eligible for selection consideration, a submittal package must contain all documentation detailed in Section VII of the ITB document. Submit one (1) original printed package, three (3) printed copies. The printed documents shall be enclosed in a sealed envelope and be marked on the upper left-hand corner with the name and address of the contractor and bear the following title: “Law Enforcement Boat (ITB 24-01).” Submit sealed proposal packages by certified mail or in person to: Islamorada, Village of Islands Attn: Village Clerk 86800 Overseas Highway Islamorada, Florida 33036 Go to https://www.islamorada.fl.us/bids.aspx?bidID=20 to view and download the bid documents.

Islamorada, Village of Islands REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOUNDERS PARK SOLAR STREET LIGHT FIXTURES REPLACEMENT PROJECT RFP 24-02 Bid Submittal Deadline: 3:00 p.m. February 20, 2024 Islamorada, Village of Islands is seeking formal proposals from qualified contractors to provide the materials and services needed to replace the solar street light fixtures on existing light poles throughout Founders Park. Specifications and details are provided in the RFP document and exhibits. To be eligible for selection consideration, a submittal package must contain all documentation detailed in Section VIII of the RFP document. Submit one (1) original printed package and three (3) printed copies, and one (1) electronic copy provided by email attachment or cloud storage link to clerk@islamorada.fl.us. The printed documents shall be enclosed in a sealed envelope and be marked on the upper left-hand corner with the name and address of the contractor and bear the following title: “Founders Park Solar Street Light Fixtures Replacement Project (RFP 24-02).” Submit sealed proposal packages by certified mail or in person to: Islamorada, Village of Islands, Attn: Village Clerk 86800 Overseas Highway Islamorada, Florida 33036 Go to https://www.islamorada.fl.us/bids.aspx?bidID=21 to view and download the bid documents.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 18, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 18, 2024

OSPREY LANDS A NEW HOME Bird’s injury leads to a new mission in New York JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

Kendall Ozier, avian care intern with the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center, with the young osprey rescued near Island Christian School in Islamorada last year. CONTRIBUTED

Lou Whalen, a volunteer with Wild Wings, recently drove from upstate New York to the Keys to retrieve the osprey.

young osprey tried to fly the skies above the Florida Keys. An injury during flight practice, however, grounded the bird for a time until a rescue and rehabilitation effort ensued. Despite never gaining full flight capabilities, the osprey has landed a new home in New York where he’ll serve an important role for a nonprofit educational organization in Honeoye Falls. Last April, a call from a resident reported an osprey lying on the ground beneath a nest, which was 180 feet up on a power pole, near the former Island Christian School in Islamorada. Florida Fish & Wildlife Officer Jason Rafter, who was the first to respond to the bird grounding, began to communicate with the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center in Tavernier over the osprey’s condition. It wasn’t a point of concern right away for local bird rehabilitators, as young birds tend to be grounded as they learn to take flight. After further examination, however, the bird was showing signs of wing droop. “The theory was he was trying to fly but the nest was really high,” Rafter said. Eventually, the bird was safely captured and transported to the hospital for examination. Erin Allison, executive director for the Wild Bird Center, said her team began to take multiple X-rays. They determined the osprey had a severe coracoid fracture. “The coracoid is a bone in the chest of birds underneath their

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collarbone that is shaped like the ‘wishbone,’ Allison said. “A broken coracoid heavily affects the flight capabilities of birds. “ After giving the osprey time to heal, bird rehabilitators began the next step with some flight conditioning. The bird was given access to a large enclosure where it could practice flying back and forth to strengthen the muscles and stamina. And while most ospreys are picky eaters in captivity, the osprey ate very well during the recovery phase. Despite exhibiting signs of progress, the osprey never regained full flight capabilities and wasn’t able to be released back into the wild. Allison said the osprey was a candidate for a permanent placement as an educational ambassador. That’s when Wild Wings Inc., located in Honeoye Falls, New York, entered the picture. “They are a bird of prey facility and nature center that was looking for an osprey for their educational program. This turned out to be a perfect match,” Allison said. Approval was needed from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service for the osprey’s transfer from the Keys to Wild Wings. The Wild Bird Center in Tavernier was notified of the approval this month. Lou Whalen, a volunteer with Wild Wings, recently drove from Monroe County, New York to Monroe County, Florida to retrieve the osprey. A new journey begins for the young bird. “We are so excited about this placement and are happy that the osprey’s story will continue to inspire and educate the public,” Allison said. Rafter said the bird is very strong and good with people. “It’s a snowbird in reverse,” he joked.

DIVE MUSEUM HOSTS ‘CORAL CREATIONS’ ART SHOW

he History of Diving Museum in Islamorada is hosting its sixth annual art exhibit involving K-12 art students, member artists of the Art Guild of the Purple Isles (AGPI) and the museum. This year’s exhibit is known as “Dive Into Art: Coral Creations Show.” The show opened Jan. 17 with a private reception for students, parents, school officials and participating artists with the Art Guild of the Purple Isles. The exhibit is available for the public to view through April 17. In keeping with the exhibit’s theme, the show will focus on the reef and will include a variety of coral and all the life that it supports; fishermen, divers, birds and sea life. Along with the student exhibits, member artists of AGPI will display reef- and marine-themed artwork in all mediums. More than 60 pieces will be available for purchase. AGPI is a not-for-profit group of artists supporting the visual fine arts in all media and photography in the Upper Keys. Diane Smith and Mary Ellen Holler are AGPI event co-chairs. The History of Diving Museum is located at MM 83 in Islamorada. Museum hours run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. — Contributed

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 18, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 18, 2024

ARTISTS CORNER

WAVES OF INSPIRATION Memories turn to glass for artist Chris Catlett

here is just something about the ocean. It reaches out to us; it calls to us. The ocean itself has always been a part of our lives. It is believed the first documented written account of the ocean currents and WILLIAM tides was in the fourth cenDEPAULA tury B.C. by Aristotle. Waves have long been depicted in is an artist, art, such as the Great Wave designer and off Kanagawa by Katsushika gemologist who believes in the Hokusai. In the Florida Keys, power of art. there’s an artist and sculptor who is dedicated to showcasing beautiful waves with glass and exotic wood. The artist is Chris Catlett. Catlett has been creating art for as long as he can remember. Besides sculpting, he is also an illustrator and a motorsports photographer. He isn’t from a family of artists, but his grandmother was into creating oil paintings. Over the last 10-plus years Catlett has been dedicated to his fused-glass sculptures. He does a unique style of glass that really hasn’t been done before. He takes the craft and makes fine

art out of glass with his technique and style. Catlett said he learned the art form from artist Renee Anderson. Without Anderson, Catlett wouldn’t have developed his unique style. “She introduced me to the art form and taught me a lot. I thank her for her help and guidance,” he said. Catlett is a practical person, punctual and resourceful — things you typically don’t associate with an artist. With his tall, strong physique, he cuts an imposing figure. But he is one of the most humble and polite people you will ever meet. Growing up in California, he joined the U.S. Coast Guard and was stationed all around the United States. His love for the ocean was furthered by sailing all around the world – as he puts it, “a big chunk of the world.” His waves are inspired by memories of the ocean off the shore of north California, the Great Lakes and the frigid waters of the Antarctic and the Arctic. “The wild waves and storm oceans definitely inspire me,” he said. Catlett said the service taught him to be patient with his art form. Catlett’s sculptures are made of glass and exotic wood. A very simplified version of his process goes as follows. “I start with a flat sheet of glass, draw out my design and start cutting on the glass saw,”

he said. “Once that’s done the glass goes into the kiln for approximately 24 hours to make the glass pieces melt together. This leaves a lot of definition on the glass, then it’s put back in the kiln over a mold to give it some motion and the wave look. The hardest part about making art is for me to slow down while I’m creating a piece.” He has taken some time off recently but now is fully dedicated to focusing on his artwork. It is hard to classify Catlett’s work; the wave sculptures capture many emotions like a small child would collect lightning bugs in a jar. When you see them, they feel exciting, slick and modern. You can almost hear the sound of waves crashing as you look at the sculptures. Catlett’s sculptures can be found in Art Corner in Marathon, the Islamorada Art Gallery by Pasta or Chasen Glass Gallery in Sarasota. Contact Catlett at chriscatlettt@gmail.com.

Above: Catlett’s wave glassworks are inspired by memories of the ocean off the shore of north California, the Great Lakes and the frigid waters of the Antarctic and the Arctic. CONTRIBUTED. Inset: Artist Chris Catlett.

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FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY & DISCOVERY CENTER PRESENTS

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Curator of Education Collier County Museums

February 2 - 3, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 18, 2024

IS 2024 THE END OF THE PAPER CHECK?

KIDS HOOK SAILS Inaugural fish tournament sees 17 young anglers

UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA IFAS/Contributed

Why a credit card is the safer way to pay

magine you mailed a check to pay a bill, and someone stole it. The thieves altered it, cashed it and cleaned out your account. If you catch it quickly, you can contact the bank and reverse the charges, but sometimes you can’t. If the thieves cashed it through a second bank, you may have to wait weeks for that bank to investigate. Most of us are not using checks regularly. But are you still making payments by mail to medical providers or insurance companies? Now is an excellent time to stop. According to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, check fraud tied to mail theft is up 30% nationwide. There are several types of check fraud. Counterfeit checks: Counterfeit checks involve the creation of fake checks that closely resemble legitimate ones. Fraudsters use advanced printing techniques to replicate bank logos, watermarks, and other security features, making it difficult for individuals and businesses to discern the authenticity of the checks. Forged signatures: Forging signatures is a classic method of check fraud. Criminals may steal a checkbook and sign the owner’s name without their knowledge. Modern technology has made it easier to mimic signatures, making this form of fraud prevalent. Altered checks: Altering checks involves changing the payee’s name, the amount or other details on a legitimate check. Criminals may use chemicals or other methods to erase or modify the ink, turning a genuine check into a fraudulent one. Account takeover: Account takeover occurs when fraudsters gain unauthorized access to a bank account, allowing them to issue fraudulent checks or manipulate existing ones.

This scam often involves phishing, identity theft or exploiting weak online security measures. The best prevention is to stop using checks and ALICIA BETANCOURT use a credit card instead, providis the University ing much more of Florida, IFAS protection from Monroe County Extension Director fraud. Safeguarding and Commucheckbooks and nity Development other sensitive fiAgent. nancial documents is crucial. Locking them securely away helps prevent unauthorized access and reduces the risk of physical check theft. Find alternative ways to pay. I have noticed that more companies provide a QR code link to pay online. Check the bill for online instructions. If you need to pay an individual, ask if they accept electronic payment through bank transfer or a cash app. You can call and request phone payments if you have a bill without online payment options. If you’re using the mail or a carrier, take it directly to them and get a tracking number. Experts advise using a black gel pen to write checks; it is the hardest to “wash” out. If you send a check, follow up and ensure it arrives. Stop payment if it takes more than a couple of weeks. Lastly, keep a low balance in your checking account and link a savings account. Thieves will have access to fewer funds if your account gets compromised. Call your bank immediately if you suspect a check has fallen into the wrong hands. Then file a police report. As technology advances, so does the sophistication of check fraud schemes. Staying vigilant, adopting enhanced security measures and embracing digital alternatives are essential steps in mitigating the risks.

Outstanding catch went to 10-year-old Gauge Nopp, who caught a black fin tuna. Also pictured is Donny Lange, tournament founder and Tackle Center owner. CONTRIBUTED

eventeen anglers ages 16 and younger took to the waters off Islamorada in search of sailfish for the inaugural Keys Kids Sailfish Tournament on Jan. 13. In the one-day tournament, anglers – up to age 10 in the small fry division and from 11 to 16 in the junior division – competed for prizes. The kickoff party started at Angler House Marina the night before the tournament with burgers and dogs for the kids and parents. Lines were in at 8 a.m. the following morning. Fishing was slow with a southsouthwesterly wind, but the first hookup was called in by Capt. Benny Spaulding aboard his charter boat Playbaby just before 9 a.m. Angler Dallon Morjon, from Pompano Beach, released the fish 14 minutes later. Heavy Guns called in the next hookup but the fish was lost. Tackle Center’s Capt. Charlie Scoble called in a hookup later in the morning. Angler Layton Lange, of Tavernier, would release the

sailfish 45 minutes later. It wouldn’t take long before Dallon Morjon had a second fish on. Morjon released the fish, putting his team in first place. Tackle Center hooked another fish, this time by angler Zane Wampler, of Tavernier. When the committee boat called lines out at 3 p.m., it would be team Playbaby with Morjon, 16, and small fry angler Hunter Spaulding, 6, taking home first place with two releases on time. Second place went to Team Tackle Center. Most outstanding catch went to small fry angler and Islamorada resident Gauge Nopp, 10, who caught a blackfin tuna. “The awards ceremony at Lorelei was fantastic,” said Donny Lange, tournament founder and owner of Tackle Center Islamorada. “It was great to see all the kids sitting at one table and having such a great time. This is our first year and we look forward to making it bigger and better next year.” — Contributed

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 18, 2024

JAKE ANIMAL THERAPY PROGRAM TAKES OFF

his 5-year-old male mix is neutered and up to date on his vaccines. He will need to be the one and only dog in the house. He loves to play fetch and tug-of-war. He would love a large yard to run and play. If you would like to make Jake a part of your family, or to learn more about other pets available for adoption, give the Upper Keys Humane Society (UKHS) a call at 305-451-3848. UKHS is a not-forprofit no-kill shelter that provides food, shelter, medical care and adoption services for unwanted and abandoned animals.

Nicole Navarro and Ridley the fox visit the Hemingway Home & Museum in Key West. CONTRIBUTED

Plus, boat line & Ridley team up at upcoming event

H 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.

i friends! Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” We are continuing to start 2024 with big bangs at Pawsitive Beginnings in Key Largo. Last week mom, founder Nicole Navarro, spent the entire day in Key West with Ridley giving back to the community and engaging with our animal-assisted

therapy partners. She and Ridley visited Wesley House’s Inez Martin Children’s Center, the Hemingway Home and Museum to collaborate on some cool photos and then it was off to Project Lighthouse for their monthly group. They finished off the day speaking to the women at the Mary Spottswood Center run by Samuel’s House. The following day, they made their way to our other partner in Key Largo, Kinder in the Keys Treatment Center, where they spoke to the women about

resilience and overcoming past traumas. As our program continues to grow and be more widely recognized and requested, additional funding specific to the program is needed. We now have a variety of levels of sponsorship that our local community can sign up for to ensure that this unique program can continue to operate and operate efficiently. Pawsitive Beginnings does not ask for money to appear at any of our community partner facilities and it will stay that way, but now we need your help. To find out more regarding program sponsorship, please visit pawsitivebeginnings.org and click the “animal assisted therapy” page. Don’t forget: This Saturday, Jan. 20, from 10 a.m. to 1p.m., Ridley and mom will be special guests at the SD Marine tent during the Island Boat Show. We will be helping to highlight their Sea Fox line of marine crafts. How cool is that? Make sure to head on down and say “hi” to mom and Ridley. I’m pretty sure you can get your photo taken with him. No, you won’t be able to hold him but selfies while mom is holding him are totally cool. Anywho, that’s all for this week. Until next time, Reef, over and out!

SAVE THE DATE Thursday, Jan. 18 • Art Guild of the Purple Isles’ Members Judged Art Show at Keys History & Discovery Center, Islamorada. Exhibit on display Tuesdays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. until March 14. • Morada Way Art Walk from 6 to 9 p.m. at Morada Way Arts & Cultural District, Islamorada. Friday, Jan. 19 • Feed South Florida food collage and cooking demo from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at Key Largo library. • Teen Night Out beach bonfire and movie “Back to the Future” from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Founders Park beach. For sixth graders and up. Admission is $10. • Friday Concert series welcomes Bing Futch at 6 p.m. at Key Largo library. Jan. 19-21 • Ninth annual Island Boat Show at Island Community Church, MM 82.4, bayside, Islamorada. Visit islandboatshow.com for more information.

Saturday, Jan. 20 • Wildlife Workout Hike at 10 a.m. at Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park, Islamorada. Email Hannah.OCarroll@FloridaDEP. gov to sign up. Sunday, Jan. 21 • Key Largo Cars & Coffee from 9 a.m. to noon at American Caribbean Real Estate, MM 99.9, Key Largo. Monday, Jan. 22 • Islamorada special call meeting to pick the village manager at 4:30 p.m. at Founders Park Community Center. Tuesday, Jan. 23 • Islamorada Nature Walk & Talk from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Anne’s Beach, MM 73, Islamorada. Sign up • Paint, Sip & Pups at 6 p.m. at MarrVelous Pet Rescue, 68 Silver Springs Dr., Key Largo. $50 per person. Seating is limited. Call 305-4531315 to reserve a spot. • Trashy Tuesday cleanup at 5:15 p.m. at Harry Harris Park, Tavernier.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 18, 2024

FLORIDA KEYS EATS

ALL THE HEALTH, ALL THE FLAVOR

Mystery Dinner Theater Returns to the Elks Lodge KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL

Fresh, filling foods at Seaside Eatery

www.keysweekly.com

wasn’t sure how to write this article because I was worried if I emphasized how incredibly healthy Seaside Eatery is, it might scare off some potential SAMANTHA wholesome-foodDELLILO hating patrons. is a Keys native who Many people has a passion for all associate healthy things food. She runs and plant-based the local food blog, with less flavor. “Florida Keys Eats.” This couldn’t be further from the truth with this local gem. Located at MM 98, oceanside, and tucked away in the lush landscape behind Overseas Highway and Coco Plum Road, Seaside Eatery is the first place I start missing when I’m out of town. They specialize in plant-based items and mostly made-from-scratch food like their hot sauces and jams. Seaside Eatery goes as far as growing their own herbs and most vegetables. I have never had a bad thing on their menu but there are two items I could eat weekly and never get tired of. On a hot day, which is most days in Key Largo, nothing hits the spot like their chickpea wrap. The protein level in this baby is so high you find yourself full after eating only half. Luckily it saves so well in the fridge for lunch the next day. The salad inside the wrap has the texture of tuna or chicken salad but is made with all chickpeas and is accompanied by tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, red cabbage, carrots and an addicting lemon vinaigrette. On a day I prefer a warm lunch, I go for the T.L.T. Now this sandwich is an anomaly. It has some of the best sourdough bread I’ve ever had, lettuce, tomato, shaved red onion and vegan mayo. Notice it is called the T.L.T. instead of a B.L.T. That’s because in place of the bacon is smoked maple-glazed tofu. The anomaly I was mentioning is this maple tofu. You

‘MURDER ON THE GRILL’ A RECIPE FOR LAUGHTER

Seaside Eatery’s chickpea wrap. SAMANTHA DELLILO/Keys Weekly

see, I’m a bacon lover. I don’t know if I’ve ever come across something more flavorful and satisfying than bacon, until now. I would pick this maple-glazed tofu over bacon 100 times over. There are days I literally crave this sandwich. At Seaside Eatery, the fun isn’t only at lunch, they serve breakfast as well. Again, some of the best breakfast items I’ve ever had and the best part is you don’t feel bogged down after indulging. They have a B-fast Sammie that mimics the look of a McDonald’s Egg McMuffin and has a sweet sriracha aioli that will brighten up any morning. For those Keys kids who miss the days when we had Taco Bell, Seaside Eatery has a crunch wrap supreme doppelgänger they call the b-fast munch wrap. This thing is filled to the brim with all the goodies. Black bean spread, “just egg,” hash browns, avocado, tomato, red onion, cumin cilantro aioli and of course the signature crunch tortilla all stuffed into a spinach wrap and pressed. I have yet to meet someone who has tried Seaside Eatery who didn’t become a regular customer immediately after. It might be the most unusual little café food truck we have in the Keys, and thank the heavens it’s healthy because I can’t get enough. It’s the new year, 2024 is here, and I know most of us have health-related resolutions, and Seaside Eatery is the place to make those come to life. You won’t be sacrificing flavor for good choices here at all. Go give Seaside Eatery a chance and if you’re in the 1% who ends up not liking it, give me a call, I’ll come eat your leftovers. Eat in person and enjoy the gorgeous scenery or head to SeasideEateryFLKeys.com to put in your to go order on a busy day.

ongtime Islamorada resident, real estate agent and actor Patrice Messina has directed and acted in so many murder mysteries, she’s lost count. “It originally started with food and wine week, then food and wine week went away and people started asking me to do them for fundraisers, and now I do them every year,” said Messina, who estimates she’s directed more than a dozen murder mysteries over the last 20 years. On the menu this year: a whodunit interactive comedy taking place at the Elks Lodge 1872 in Tavernier. “Murder on the Grill” is a play based in Kansas City in the 1950s. Audience members are encouraged to dress up and try to guess who committed murder, as a hilarious cast of suspects point fingers at each other while improvising their lines. “They are characters and their job is to build their own character because a lot of it is ad lib; it’s just partially scripted,” said Messina, who also has a part in the play. “Improvisation is more up my alley so I have a lot of fun,” said Robert Pozo. This will be Pozo’s first murder mystery, but like most of his castmates, he has acted in past productions by the Key Players. Messina says the actors go by the name the Mystery Players, an offshoot of the Key Players. Half of the cast members have participated in prior murder mysteries, including legendary retired fishing Capt. Skip Bradeen. He has what Messina jokingly refers to as a “cameo role with devastating consequences,” and that’s just how Bradeen likes it. “I really look forward to it; they give me the smallest amount of lines, but they give me something effective,” Bradeen said. Justina Lee Black is a singer and songwriter in real life. This is her first time acting locally. She plays an overthe-top beauty queen. “I guess the character just kind of comes naturally because, being an entertainer, I just morph into whoever I need to be, so it’s a lot of fun,” said Black. This will be Maggie Mistal’s second murder mystery. Mistal will be

The cast of ‘Murder on the Grill’ poses during a recent dress rehearsal at the Elks Lodge in Tavernier. KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL/Keys Weekly

acting alongside her husband, Craig Zabransky, who plays a Russian rocket scientist who defected to the United States. Zabransky has been in more than a handful of murder mysteries and is also very active in the Key Players. The two have a son who has also acted in plays at Treasure Village Montessori. Acting is clearly a family affair; that’s why Mistal decided to give the stage a shot. “I figured it was my turn to be part of the act,” she said with a laugh. This will also be Clay Crockett’s second time in a murder mystery. When asked why he came back for another production he said, “That would be Patrice. She’s very persuasive.” Along with the play, the audience will enjoy rock-and-roll tunes from the ’50s and a four-course barbecueinspired meal. The proceeds go to the Elks charities with money earmarked for college scholarships for local high school students. Debbie Hess plays saucy divorcee Barby Q. Hess loves the fact that the proceeds from the show go to a great cause. “My son was an athlete at Coral Shores so he benefited from scholarships,” said Hess. It’s costume designer Christina Haynes’ job to make sure the actors look the part. She’s volunteered her talents for five of Messina’s murder mysteries and wouldn’t miss it for the world. “I love it, I love it,” said Haynes. “You’re going to see me the night of the play, I’m all over the place,” she added with a laugh. “Murder on the Grill” takes place at the Elks Lodge 1872 in Tavernier on Saturday, Jan. 20 and Saturday, Jan. 27. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show begins promptly at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $53.75 per person and that includes a four-course dinner by Chef Mike. There will also be a best-costume contest for 1950s-era attire. To purchase tickets, visit floridakeyselks.com/events. For groups, call Terry at 305-339-8957.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 18, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 18, 2024

WRECKERS BATTLE IT OUT

A ship salvage leads to tussle in court Editor’s note: This is the first in a two-part series.

orking with history is always a learning process. I think it is pretty safe to say that when it comes to history, you only know as much as the last thing you read. It is one of the reasons the pursuit of history can be testing, wonderful and never exactly boring. The insights and fallout from spending weeks reading and re-reading through surviving copies of the Florida Keys’ first newspaper, The Key West Register and Commerical Advertiser, continue. The print is small and clustered, making for strained reading through already strained and bespectacled eyes. Still, it is intriguing and must feel like gold panning — you spend time sifting through the regular dirt, hoping to uncover some really cool nugget. The shiniest nugget for me, as a lover of all things relating to Indian Key, my favorite island in the chain, was discovering a juicy story involving Jacob Housman. Not

only does it indirectly involve Indian Key and tell a great Housman story, but it also alleges a little act of wrecker-on-wrecker crime. While there are many Housman stories to tell, one has always stood out for me, and probably because, as I had heard it, read about it, and learned it from others, something about it never quite added up. The story printed in the paper’s April 30, 1829 edition was actually an official action from the United States of America, Southern Judicial District of Florida, directed to the district’s marshal. The story involved the salvage of the brigantine Vigilant, $30,000 in silver specie (coins), and a windfall for the notorious wrecker Jacob Housman. As I have always told the story, Housman and the French captain of the Vigilant entered into a deal after the vessel had grounded and its captain feared navigating the local shallows, shoals and reefs and was paid a 75% salvage award for duties performed as a wrecker. According to Captain Daniel C. Mellon and the complaint he relayed to Judge Webb in Key West, there was a little more to the story. According to Mellon, on or about July 1, 1828, while accompanied by a single gentleman sailing in a smack, he discovered a twomasted ship wrecked in bad weather near Rachels Key. To lend aid, Mellon attempted to approach the stranded vessel, but foul weather prevented a safe approach, and he was

PIXABAY

forced to seek refuge at the Sister Keys. There, Mellon discovered the captain and crew of the wrecked ship. He also discovered that neither the captain nor the crew spoke English. To remedy the situation, and knowing that a Frenchman on Rachels Key could FLORIDA act as a translator, Mellon sailed KEYS the ship’s captain to the island HISTORY where their communication could WITH be clarified. BRAD According to Mellon’s testiBERTELLI mony, the following was communicated at Rachels Key. Brad is a local The brig was named Vigilant. historian, author, speaker and Her captain requested Mellon’s Honorary Conch assistance, engaging him to take who loves sharing the history of the charge of the brig and its cargo of silver specie, “Dye wood, Fustic, Florida Keys. and Sassaparilla (sic).” Reading through the account, I recognized that specie referred to coins, and $30,000 is a large number today, but it represented a significantly greater number in 1828. While I am not a huge fan of sarsaparilla, my favorite of the colas is sarsaparilla’s cousin, root beer, so I understood the specie and sarsaparilla. Having no idea what fustic was, I did a little research. The “Dye wood” could have been Chlorophora tinctoria, a tree from the mulberry family. It is from the wood of this kind of tree that fustic, a yellowish dye, is created. What is also attested to in Mellon’s account was that, having been engaged as the wreck master of the Vigilant, Mellon and his partner diligently worked “together with the crew of the Brig, with great difficulty and danger, saved the said vessel and cargo from total loss.” What was also said was that Mellon intended to sail the brig to Key West “to receive the amount for which he was entitled for the great service he rendered.” And then, at some point, the wrecking schooner Sarah Isabella, manned by Captain Housman and his crew of seven, entered the scene. According to Mellon and the court action, Housman’s actions were of a criminal nature. and that an action had been ordered by Judge Webb on April 6, 1829, “to take the body of Jacob Housman, & require of him to give bail in the full sum of ten thousand dollars, to insure his personal appearance at the Court House in Key West on the first Monday in May next.” Next week, the story will continue, and we will discover the nature of the wrecker-on-wrecker crime Captain Housman was alleged to have committed.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 18, 2024 Exhibit “A” TO MEMBERS OF FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE ASSOC., INC.

BESTSELLERS • CHILDREN'S SECTION LOCAL AUTHORS • GIFTS & GIFT CARDS

NOTICE OF ELECTION OF TWO DIRECTORS The Board of Directors of Florida Keys Electric Cooperative Association, Inc. (FKEC) has set the following date(s) for the District Elections for two positions on the Board of Directors: District 1 March 14, 2024

Key Largo area northeast of the section line common to Sections 6 and 7, TWP-62S, R. 39E, southerly of Mandalay Subdivision - Dade/Monroe County Line on U.S. 1 (including Ocean Reef) to Mile Marker 97.7

District 2 March 14, 2024

Tavernier area southeast of the section line as established southerly of Mandalay Subdivision and northeast of Snake Creek

The incumbent directors of the two districts have decided to stand for re-election. In the event only one qualified member from a district for each position is so nominated, that member shall be declared elected. Elections may be conducted on the designated election date, by mail ballot, and/or by electronic means. The notice of election and the election ballot and informational materials shall be mailed to every member residing or doing business in the district not less than fifteen (15) days prior to the election date. All ballots returned by mail must be received by the Cooperative or the Cooperative’s contracted third-party election management provider no later than one day prior to the official election date.

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Directors elected at the district elections shall serve for a period of three years and will take office at the first regular or special meeting to be held on or after Saturday, April 13, 2024. Members interested in becoming candidates and placing their names in nomination for membership on the Board of Directors are hereby notified of the qualifications and election procedures prescribed by the Bylaws of Florida Keys Electric Cooperative Association, Inc. A candidate for director must be a member of FKEC and a bona fide resident of the district he/she represents and have 12 months of residency in the area served by the Cooperative. The candidate must not be a minor. No candidate may in any way be employed by or have a substantial financial interest in a competing enterprise or a business selling electric energy or supplies to FKEC or be the incumbent for an elective public office in connection with which a salary or compensation is paid. Candidates must submit a nominating petition with fifteen (15) or more signatures of members residing in the voting district no less than forty-five (45) days prior to the date of the district election specified above. Nominating petitions for District 1 must be received by FKEC by Noon on Monday, January 29, 2024, and petitions for District 2 must be received by FKEC by Noon on Monday, January 29, 2024. (Please allow time for verification of signatures). Nomination petition forms may be obtained from the FKEC Tavernier Headquarters. A copy of the FKEC bylaws may be obtained from FKEC offices. The election will be given widespread publicity prior to the election date. By Order of the Board of Directors Florida Keys Electric Cooperative Association, Inc.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 18, 2024

“Revolutionary.” “Euphoric.” “Life-Changing.”

T 1

UNDER PRESSURE

Boutique gym offers ‘life-changing’ fitness and recovery techniques for chronic pain TIFFANY DUONG tiffany@keysweekly.com

1. Constant pressure from heavy weights held on by trained hands for sustained periods helps to release IT Band pressure and sensitivity. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly 2. Chris Merrell shows three different size/weight tools he uses to release tension in his body tempering clients. 3. Chris Merrell showcases his body tempering tools and VR headset – part of his training arsenal at BTW Fitness in Tavernier. 4. Chris Merrell offers virtual reality workouts to help clients find wellness and fitness that works for them. 5. Chris Merrell is a fan and practitioner of body tempering – a new recovery practice he’s offering out of BTW Fitness in Tavernier.

his is what body tempering clients are saying about the innovative new service now being offered at Beyond Traditional Wellness (BTW) in Tavernier. When Chris Merrell opened up the boutique fitness and wellness center in the Upper Keys, he knew he wanted to help people feel great in their bodies. The storefront has since moved to Tavernier, but the health enthusiast continues to offer fully personalized, tailored training plans for his clients. These aren’t cookie-cutter New Year’s resolution-style plans. Rather, Merrell talks with clients to understand their challenges, goals and needs. Then he uses his years of training in fitness coaching and recovery therapies to customize workouts and recovery options that optimize results. “You can’t just train,” the fitness guru said. “You gotta train and recover. Fitness is a balance of training and recovery.” This two-pronged approach explains why Merrell’s offerings always include so much more beyond traditional wellness – way more than the typical gym with a bunch of machines. Body tempering is the newest recovery service Merrell is offering, and clients are loving it. “Body tempering is a method of soft tissue manipulation,” he said. “It’s a myofascial release technique using heavy tools – 20 to 80 pounds or more – as rollers that apply constant and steady pressure into a muscle. Through this, a deeper relaxation of that muscle group can be achieved.” Myofascia is the connective tissue covering everything in the body. Similar to tendons and ligaments, fascia wraps around muscles and body parts to hold them together. And, just as everyday stress from life can build up muscle tensions, it can also increase myofascial tensions. Massage helps release the former while body tempering can release the latter. The gist: You lie on a massage-like pad on the floor, and Merrell adds weighted rollers onto specific areas of your body holding tension. Each body part will take a different load amount of weights – 50 pounds on the glutes, 20 on the arms and feet and more on the broad back muscles – and each person will vary in their pressure tolerance. The rollers can be manipulated across muscles for a dynamic stretch, and more weight can be added. If a client wants or needs more, Merrell can expertly leverage himself into the weights, too. At each step, he asks what the pressure feels like on a scale from 1 to 10. “I’ll know if

the pressure gets to a 5 or 7 because the breathing changes, like a deep stretch,” he said. That’s the sweet spot. The weight statically compresses your muscles, and your body pushes back against that weight, but you’re in a passive state. This is key. “The pressure forces you into the deep breathing that is required for muscles and myofascial tension to truly relax,” Merrell said. The treatment creates a deep – but passive – stretch, allowing for a profound release of stubborn tension. “When pressure is removed, the body will flood that area with blood flow, and blood flow heals everything,” Merrell added. “With pressure, you can flush things out.” As a bonus, tempering counts as a form of strength training and can be helpful for older clients like his snowbirds to maintain strength. “I’ve been a licensed massage therapist for 10 years, and I’d pick body tempering over massage,” Merrell said. “It’s faster. Thirty minutes of body tempering can feel like a 90-minute massage because of that constant and controlled pressure. A human can only push to the capacity that they’re fit enough to push. Gravity, on the other hand, is always going to be constant. Eighty pounds of steel rollers will always be 80 pounds.” So, who can benefit? Anyone. “This is a game changer for people with chronic pain,” Merrell said. That deep release helped Upper Keys fishing guide Drew Moret, who came in “suffering from back pain with nerve pain down my leg that was debilitating, to say the least.” He changed his schedule and took less business because of the pain. Five 30-minute body tempering sessions later, he no longer has pain. “Chris and body tempering have been nothing short of life-changing for me,” Moret raved. “This is a revolutionary approach to pain, and Chris is on the forefront of this. … I was suffering. … (Now,) I am happy to say that due to Chris, I am 100 percent pain-free.” After body tempering, another client brought her entire family to meet Chris at the restaurant where he works. She introduced him: “This is Chris. Chris saved my life.” Merrell himself used tempering to deepen his squats. The “flushing” allowed him to go much deeper after just one rolling session. So, if you suffer from chronic pain, need to give yourself a quality recovery or want to try something new and good for you, consider this your friendly PSA to try body tempering at BTW.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 18, 2024

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JANUARY 18, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

JAN. 18

THE SCOREBOARD

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Team

Sport

Opponent

Date

Result

Coral Shores

Boys Basketball

Keys Gate

1/8

L, 46-42

Marathon

Boys Basketball

Palmer

1/9

L, 59-56

Marathon

Girls Soccer

Florida Christian

1/9

L, 2-1

Marathon

Boys Soccer

Florida Christian

1/9

L, 8-0

Coral Shores

Boys Soccer

South Homestead

1/9

L, 3-2

Key West

Boys Soccer

St. Thomas Aquinas

1/9

W, 2-0

Key West

Boys Basketball

Somerset Academy

1/10

L, 88-56

Marathon

Boys Basketball

Keys Gate

1/10

L, 68-41

Coral Shores

Girls Soccer

Gulliver

1/10

L, 3-0

Coral Shores

Boys Soccer

Ransom

1/10

T, 2-2

Marathon

Girls Basketball

Keys Gate

1/10

W, 54-9

Coral Shores

Boys Basketball

MAST Academy

1/11

W, 62-47

Coral Shores

Girls Basketball

Key West

1/11

W, FF

Marathon

Girls Soccer

Key West

1/11

L, 6-0

Key West

Boys Soccer

Silver Palms

1/11

W, 4-2

Coral Shores

Girls Soccer

Marathon

1/12

T, 3-3

Key West

Girls Basketball

Ransom

1/12

L, 42-26

Marathon

Boys Soccer

Coral Shores

1/12

W, 4-3

Key West

Girls Soccer

Gulliver

1/12

L, 1-0

Coral Shores

Girls Basketball

Keys Gate

1/12

W, 53-19

Key West

Boys Basketball

Westminster Christian

1/13

L, 46-70

Key West

Boys Soccer

Bolles

1/13

W, 3-2

Marathon

Girls Basketball

Ransom

1/13

L, 67-24

Key West

Girls Basketball

Archbishop McCarthy

1/13

L, 56-36

THIS WEEK

Kieran

SMITH

Sophomore Key West

He is one of the captains who goes about his business in a manner that instills conﬁdence in the team. He’s unselﬁsh, working for the team above all else.” – Conchs head coach Nic Farrar

JAN. 18

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS Date

School

Sport

Opponent

Start Time

1/18

Coral Shores

Wrestling

Key West

5 p.m.

1/19

Marathon

Girls & Boys Basketball

Pace

4 & 6:30 p.m.

1/19

Marathon

Girls Soccer

Lemon Bay

5 p.m.

1/20

Marathon

Girls Basketball

St. Brendan

1 p.m.

1/20

Key West

Girls Soccer

Lemon Bay

11 a.m.

1/22

Marathon

Girls & Boys Basketball

Posnack

4 & 5:45

1/23

Coral Shores

Girls Basketball

LaSalle

4 p.m.

1/24

Marathon

Girls & Boys Basketball

Key West

5:30 & 7 p.m.

ON THE COVER Loubins Fleuridor and the Key West Conchs have been on a tear since mid-December, winning their last seven straight. See page 4. GRACE ANDREW/Keys Weekly

A team does not go on a lengthy win streak by accident; it takes hustle, hard work and, above all, an element of leadership to keep the team going in the right direction. Key West’s Kieran Smith is just that element. Coach Nic Farrar describes his center back as “one of the pillars of the defensive line that has been integral in our win streak with his ball-winning skills and heading ability.” Smith is an integral part of Key West’s defensive unit who also has two assists this season, a testament to his strong clearing skills. For his willingness to give his all on the field, Kieran Smith is the

Photo by GRACE ANDREW/Keys Weekly

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / JANUARY 18, 2024 SPORTS WRITER

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.

tracy mcdonald 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.

PODCAST HOST

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Managing Editor / Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Director of Sales

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Business Development

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Graphic Design

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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.

MARKET EDITORS

Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

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Se habla español

THE MARATHON WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050 Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com

SEVEN’S A STREAK Key West soccer mows down opponents with districts next week

JANUARY 18, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

fter a disappointing start which did not see a win for the team until Dec. 11, Key West’s boys have caught fire. Since then, the team has set up shop in the W column, including a trio of victories last week to make it a seven-game streak. On Jan. 9, they headed to St. Thomas Aquinas to play the larger 6A Raiders in Fort Lauderdale. Key West managed to topple the fifth-ranked team in 6A with a Wyatt Gibson header in the first half assisted by Sebastian Camargo. Nico Sulak put in the insurance goal with an assist by Loubins Fleuridor, and Sebastian Cruz locked things down in goal to preserve the win. Coach Nic Farrar credited defender Finn McKnight with making several clutch saves and Bruno Barrios with a goal-line clearance to secure the shutout. The victory was number five for the Conchs, with number six coming on Jan. 11 against Somerset Silver Palms in The Backyard. Key West sent the Stallions home after beating them 4-2 with just two days to prepare for their final regular-season home game that weekend. The next victim was Bolles, who traveled all the way from Jacksonville to play the Conchs. The Bolles Bulldogs are a perennial powerhouse on the pitch, and they did not lie down to hand Key West their seventh straight victory on senior night. “Both teams started brightly, and it was Key West that took the lead midway through the first half after good work from Loubins Fleuridor,” said Farrar. “(He) won the ball in the midfield and drove at the heart of the Bolles defense and calmly finished to give the Conchs the lead.” Key West held on to the lead through halftime, when the Conchs’ tempo as well as the weather changed and, according to Farrar, wind became a factor. Freshman Sonny Bowden found the back of the net for his first varsity goal in

Above: The Key West Conchs take on perennial powerhouse Bolles on Jan. 13. Key West won the match 3-2. Photos by GRACE ANDREW/Keys Weekly. See more game photos at keysweekly. com. Left: The Coral Shores Hurricanes battle Ransom Everglades to a 2-2 tie on Jan. 10. MARC SEROTA/Contributed

just his second start this season. Bolles answered back not long after Bowden’s goal, cutting the lead to 2-1. Soon after, Camargo took advantage of a Bolles goalkeeper miscue and was able to score in the unsecured goal from 25 yards out. Late into the second half, Bolles scored again, narrowing Key West’s lead to just one for the second time, and both teams battled for the final moments of play. Farrar credited McKnight with an early second-half penalty save as well as “easing the pressure with several key highball claims to secure the Conchs’ 3-2 victory.” The rest of Key West’s matches will be on the road this regular season, but they are as close to home as the Conchs get; they play Marathon and Coral Shores before focusing on districts. Key West’s girls headed to Marathon on Jan. 11 for a rainy, yet decisive, win. The Conchs dominated the Fins 6-0 with help from a hat trick by Kaitlyn Franco. Grace Andrew, Jazzy Dieguez and Maicee Gage added one goal each in the district match. Coming off of their in-county win, the Conchs played at home in The Backyard against Gulliver Prep, losing 1-0. Both teams could meet again later this month in playoff action, giving the Conchs a chance at redemption against the Raiders. Key West will play two on the road this week before returning home to play their final regular-season match of the season against Lemon Bay on Jan. 20. Marathon’s boys suffered a mercy-rule 8-0 loss at the hands of Florida Christian Jan. 9 and returned home to regroup. Neighboring rival Coral Shores would feel the full extent of their frustration on Jan. 12 when the Fins stormed the field and stole away a win on the Hurricanes’ senior night. Mikail “Jay” Marshall struck first before the ’Canes put two into the net to take the lead. Marshall scored two more for a hat trick and Oscar Cardona had one goal in the Fins’ big win. continued on the next page

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / JANUARY 18, 2024

from page 5

“Marathon played their best game to date,” said coach Shannon Wiley, praising his defense for not giving up when they were down. “Defender Sebastian Stasiewicz and goalkeeper Tiago Rivero had numerous huge saves in the box,” he added, calling their efforts “nothing short of incredible.” The Lady Fins of Marathon played three matches last week, beginning with a Jan. 9 road loss to Florida Christian. Mackenzie Budi scored the lone Fin goal on a Jordan MacDonald assist in the 2-1 loss, which looked more like a rugby match than soccer. “The other team had seven yellow cards and a blue one,” head coach Cathy Warner said, adding that she was proud of her team for holding their composure and showing some grit after some pushing and shoving went unchecked and a goal was reversed in a questionable offsides call. After the Jan. 11 loss to Key West, the Lady Fins hit the road for a trip up to Coral Shores and a second chance to play their closest neighbor – and their coach’s old stomping grounds. The Fins showed marked improvement from their 5-1 loss earlier in the season. Both teams battled for 80 minutes, resulting in a 3-3 tie. Budi, Rain Banks and Sara Strama each scored one for the Fins, with MacDonald assisting on two of Marathon’s goals. Though the ’Canes were without starters Jenna Mandozzi and Sophia Jans for their senior night, Kai Redruello found the net twice and Mya Champigny scored on a penalty kick to keep Coral Shores in the game. Warner, who is in her first year coaching for the Fins after formerly coaching the Hurricanes, was delighted with the outcome, saying the game “will leave the girls hungry and give them that drive to push even harder for the win when we play (Coral Shores) in districts.” The ’Canes and Fins will most likely match up for the first round of the FHSAA District 16 3A quarterfinals later this month. “Our girls have come a long way this season,” Warner said, “and everything we are working for is coming to fruition.” Coral Shores’ boys started the week off with a loss to Somerset South Homestead on Jan. 9. Following the 3-2 district loss, the ’Canes tied Ransom the following night 2-2. They ended their week with the 4-3 loss to Marathon. Districts for boys and girls soccer begin Jan. 24 and run through Feb. 1.

Left: The Coral Shores Hurricanes and Marathon Dolphins do battle on Jan. 12. Marathon emerged victorious, 4-3. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly. See more game photos at keysweekly. com. Right: The Lady Fins and Lady Conchs meet for an in-country rivalry match on Jan. 11. Key West had the upper hand, 6-0. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly. See more game photos at keysweekly. com.

JANUARY 18, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / JANUARY 18, 2024

JANUARY 18, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

CORAL SHORES GIRLS IMPROVE TO 9-1 Lady ‘Canes cruise to blowout senior night win

n Jan. 11, the Lady ’Canes picked up a win against Key West via forfeit, giving them just one opportunity to play last week. They made the most of it, defeating Keys Gate on Jan. 12 and giving the Hurricanes a massive district win on senior night. Senior captains Makayla Hahn and Brooke Mandozzi did not disappoint; Mandozzi had the hot hand, scoring 14, and Hahn led the team in steals with 5 in abbreviated minutes of play. The starters turned the court over to the underclassmen early in the lopsided victory. Ten ’Canes in total logged points, with several athletes reaching exciting career milestones in the 53-19 win. Junior Gabby Thomas recorded her first double-double with 10 points and rebounds. Alex Burson had a career-high 10 points and freshman Caylee DePauw went 3-3 and scored 6. Abby Vogt had 10 assists. The 9-1 Lady ’Canes have a three-game road streak before returning home Jan. 23 to play LaSalle. Coral Shores’ boys split the week, starting with a Jan. 8 road loss at Keys Gate. The ’Canes lost 46-42 against the Knights. On Jan. 11 they hosted MAST Academy. Despite getting off to a slow start and trailing 27-23 at the half, the ’Canes put it into overdrive after halftime and rallied for the win. AJ Putetti had the hot hand with 18 points. Donovan Thiery scored 15 with 7 assists and 6 steals. Isaac Rivera added 13 with 4 rebounds. Keegan Fish scored 6, Ayden Lane had 5 and Corey Dickerson added 4 to his stats. The ‘Canes end their regular season with a three-game road series before heading into the postseason. Key West played the Somerset Academy Panthers in Pembroke Pines on Jan. 10. The 4A Conchs played with heart but the 5A Panthers are ranked sixth in their class for a reason. DeMarcus Deroche earned another doubledouble, scoring 12 points and grabbing 17 rebounds. James Osborne scored 12, Josue Thanus scored 9 and Kameron Roberts scored 8 in the 88-56 loss. On Jan. 13 the Conchs suffered another loss, this time at home against Westminster Christian. Roberts was the high scorer for Key West with 20 points and Osborne added ten in the 70-46 loss. A third game scheduled to be played against Coral Shores was postponed with details not yet available. The Lady Conchs are still searching for win number one this season after a series of losses last week. On Jan. 11 Key Left: The Key West Lady Conchs take on Ransom Everglades and Archbishop McCarthy. GRACE ANDREW/Keys Weekly. See more game photos at keysweekly.com.

West was slated to host Coral Shores, but forfeited the game. The following night, Ransom made the trip to Bobby Menendez Gymnasium, defeating the Lady Conchs 42-26. On Jan. 13, the young team fell to Archbishop McCarthy 56-36. Despite a slow start to their season, Key West has several winnable games on its schedule and could finish the

season on a high note. Marathon’s boys suffered a pair of losses last week as well. On Jan. 9, the Fins hosted Palmer Trinity and gave the Falcons a run for their money, narrowly losing 59-56. A trio of seniors led the charge in scoring, with Yaniel Garcia and Xavier Grant scoring 17 each and Adrian Cruz adding 15. The following night, Marathon made the trip to Keys Gate, losing 68-41. Grant scored 9, with 7 points coming from Cruz plus 6 each from Garcia, Andrew Suarez and Daeshawn Holmes in the district matchup. The Lady Fins made short work of Keys Gate in a 54-9 road win Jan. 10. Elena Eubank scored 17 with 13 points from Marti Kilbourne, 11 from Payton Junker and 9 from Daysi Williams. The score became so lopsided that head coach Andra Garvey sent in his reserves. At a small school like Marathon, that meant playing time for multiple sixth-graders, who may not have scored any points but held their own. On Jan. 13, Ransom came to Marathon and gave the Fins a tougher time. Williams put up 11 points and Eubank scored 9 in the 67-24 loss. Daysi Williams, left. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly Abby Vogt, right. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / JANUARY 18, 2024

KEYS IRONWOMEN CONCLUDE REGULAR SEASON FHSAA State Championships are just one month away

199

154 lb. weight class winner

n Jan. 10, the Coral Shores Lady ’Canes made the trip to Marathon for both teams’ final regular-season meet. The Dolphins bested the ’Canes in both events, 57-31 in traditional lifting and 56-32 in Olympic. Coral Shores had three double winners, lifting the most in both events. Rachel Rusch won the 110 lb. class, Grace Patterson was a dual winner at 169 and Vanessa Gabriel won both events in the unlimited category. At 183 lbs., Karla Guitierrez picked up a win in the traditional event. Marathon posted double wins in the 101 lb. class with Ella Dunn, 119 with Sierra Earnhardt, 129 with Mikkel Ross, 139 with Cami Wrinn, 154 with Marquisha Abraham and 199 with Sabrina Schofield. Justice Lee won the Olympic lift event in the 183 lb. class. Ross was back on top, yielding the highest Sinclair score in both events. The Sinclair score uses a mathematical equation to determine who, pound for pound, was the highest performer. The next time the teams meet, it will be at districts held on Jan. 27 at Doctors Charter School at 10 a.m. Key West will travel to Lake Worth’s Dr. Joaquin Garcia High School on Jan. 25 for their first round of postseason lifts. With the numbers Keys’ lifters have been putting up this season, there is no doubt many athletes will move on to regionals on Feb. 3. The state meet will be held in Lakeland Feb. 16-17. Marquisha Abraham, left, and Sabrina Schoﬁeld, right. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

lb. weight class winner

JANUARY 18, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

CFK TUGAS SQUARE OFF WITH TRUMAN STATE Swimmers record personal record times in only home meet

he College of the Florida Keys welcomed swimmers from Truman State University for a meet on Jan. 8 at the college’s aquatic center on the Key West campus. Three swimmers from CFK men’s and women’s swim teams competed with 26 swimmers from the Missouri-based school who were visiting the Keys to train in the warm weather. While the TSU Bulldogs bested the CFK Tugas in numbers, the home team gave a strong performance in their only home meet of the season. Notably, Isabella Oliverio achieved personal best times in the 50 yard backstroke and 50 yard freestyle for the women's team. Kaemon Fagley achieved personal best times in the 50 yard butterfly and 50 yard freestyle while Eddie Kertis achieved personal best times in the 50 yard breaststroke and 50 yard freestyle for the men's team. Fagley and Kertis also qualified to compete in three events at the National Junior College Athletic Association Swimming and Diving Championship in March. “The pool was filled with energy,” said coach and CFK Athletics Director Lori Bosco. “Our team benefited from the additional competition and the visiting teams appreciated being able to swim outdoors in January. All the swimmers had a great time.” The Tugas will next compete at the 2024 TYR SoFLo Open Swim Meet, on Jan. 19, 20 and 21 in Pembroke Pines. — Contributed

Top: Shel the Tuga poses with athletes from the CFK and Truman State University swim teams. COLLEGE OF THE FLORIDA KEYS/Contributed

Bottom: CFK and TSU swimmers compete in the butterﬂy. COLLEGE OF THE FLORIDA KEYS/Contributed

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FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Keys Wok N’ Roll located at 102840 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, Florida 33037 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. By: M B Food Services LLC Publish: January 18, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: KEY LARGO III ROADWAY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT KEY LARGO, MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Monroe County is seeking the services of a roadway and drainage construction firm for the Key Largo III Roadway and Drainage Project (Harris Ocean Park Estates, Ocean Park Village, Palma Sola and Burton’s Yacht Basin subdivisions – approximately mm 94). The scope of work includes drainage installation, milling and resurfacing, establishing crowns, re-grading roadway shoulders, bicycle lane construction, pavement markings, and signage. This project is partially funded by an FDOT Small County Outreach Program (SCOP) grant and requires adherence to the SCOP agreement and FDOT construction standards. 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 DemandStar by Onvia at www. demandstar.com OR www. monroecountybids.com. The Public Record is available upon request. The Monroe County Purchasing Department has implemented a new electronic process for reviewing and opening sealed bids. Please do not mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Mailed/ physically delivered bids/ proposal/responses WILL NOT be accepted. The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, no later than 3:00 P.M. on February 20, 2024. Please submit your confidential financial information in a SEPARATE EMAIL from your bid and required documents. Your subject line on both emails must read as follows: KEY LARGO III ROADWAY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT 02/20/2024 Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB or otherwise be rejected or undeliverable to OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, in advance of the bid opening, please email: ombpurchasing@monroecounty-fl. gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected. The bid opening for this

solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on February 20, 2024. 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: January 18, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

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: January 18, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

ARTHUR R. SZEGLIN Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Arthur R. Szeglin, deceased, whose date of death was August 8, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 502 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: January 18, 2024. Personal Representative: Gladys M. Szeglin 1061 Bay Drive Summerland Key, Florida 33042 Attorney for Personal Representative: Nichole Scott, Esquire Florida Bar Number: 520691 Gordon Streisand, Esquire Florida Bar Number: 1010880 Primary E-Mail: Nichole. Scott@hklaw.com Secondary E-Mail: Diana. Musa@hklaw.com Primary E-Mail: Gordon. Streisand@hklaw.com Secondary E-Mail: miapwsservice@hklaw.com HOLLAND & KNIGHT LLP Attorneys for Petitioning Personal Representative 701 Brickell Ave, Suite 3300 Miami, Florida 33131 Telephone: (305) 374-8500 Fax: (305) 789-7799 Publish: January 18 & 25, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, and who have been served a copy of this notice, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. THE DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE IS: JANUARY 11, 2024. Co-Personal Representatives: KIMBERLY K. CLARK 253 W Shenandoah Street Tucson, Arizona 85737 SUSAN M. KAZMAIER 51 Plainfield Road Concord, Massachusetts 01742 Attorney for Personal Representative: JOHN MICHAEL LYNN, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 0147273 Turner & Lynn, P.A. 7 Barracuda Lane Key Largo, Florida 33037 Telephone: (305) 367-0911 turnerlynnpa@gmail.com Publish: January 11 & 18, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. THE DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE IS: JANUARY 11, 2024. Personal Representative: JOHN MICHAEL LYNN 7 Barracuda Lane Key Largo, Florida 33037 Attorney for Personal Representative: SANDRA T. LYNN, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 827177 Turner & Lynn, P.A. 7 Barracuda Lane Key Largo, Florida 33037 Telephone: (305) 367-0911 sturnerlynn@gmail.com Publish: January 11 & 18, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of VB4AD located at 5409 Overseas Highway, #1165, Marathon, Florida 33050 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. By: Valerie Bonzer Foundation For The American Dreamer, Inc. Frederick Kohler Publish: January 18, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of KEY WEST PROPOSALS located at 1107 Key Plaza, PMB 114, Monroe County in the City of Key West, Florida 33040-4077, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated at Key West, Florida this 15th day of January, 2024. By: EME GROUP, LLC Publish: January 18, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers DISTRICT II ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC II) (From the city limits of Key West to the west end of the Seven Mile Bridge) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL has an opening for a LODGING INDUSTRY REPRESENTATIVE – shall be owners or operating/general managers of motels, hotels, recreational vehicle parks, or other tourist accommodations which are subject to bed tax in the tax collection district for which they are applying. Any person wishing to participate on the District II Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application by emailing sydney@fla-keys. com. Completed applications should be emailed to sydney@ fla-keys.com or may be sent via U.S. mail to the address below: Department DAC Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040 Deadline for receipt of application at the above address is 5:00 p.m. Friday, February 16, 2024. A resume may be attached to the application. Publish: January 18, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, February 15, 2024, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Big Pine Community Park Amphitheater 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 3:00P.M. on February 15, 2024. 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. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Thursday, February 15, 2024. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-000007-P IN RE: ESTATE OF TIMOTHY ALAN DORSEY, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Timothy Alan Dorsey, deceased, whose date of death was November 26, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is January 18, 2024. Personal Representative: Erin Appleton-Dorsey 9402 12th Avenue SW Seattle, WA 98106 Attorney for Personal Representative: Steven L. Hearn, Esquire Florida Bar No. 350801 Frederick L. Hearn, Esquire Florida Bar No. 105987 STEVEN L. HEARN, P.A. 600 S. Magnolia Ave., Ste. 200 Tampa, FL 33606 Telephone: (813) 222-0003 E-Mail: slh@estatedisputes. com Secondary E-Mail: flh@ estatedisputes.com Secondary E-Mail: melr@ estatedisputes.com Publish: January 18 & 25, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2023-CP-0303-K IN RE: ESTATE OF

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 23-CP-000141-PK IN RE: ESTATE OF PATRICIA H. KAZMAIER Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of PATRICIA H. KAZMAIER, deceased, whose date of death was October 19, 2023; is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 23-CP-000141PK, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 23-CP-000142-PK IN RE: ESTATE OF PHYLLIS E. DALIA Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of PHYLLIS E. DALIA, deceased, whose date of death was December 6, 2023; is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 23-CP-000142-PK, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, and who have been served a copy of this notice, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 23-CP-000123-P IN RE: ESTATE OF BARBARA MARY PRIESTMAN, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of BARBARA MARY PRIESTMAN, deceased, File Number 23-CP-000123-P, whose date of death was April 23, 2023 and whose social security number is XXX-XX-8225, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Ste.2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, must file their claims with this Court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this Notice is: January 11, 2024. Signed on January 3, 2024. Personal Representative BRADLEY PRIESTMAN, Petitioner Attorney for Personal Representative: VINCENT J. OWOC, ESQ. Florida Bar Number 794449 Attorney for Petitioner Vincent J. Owoc, P.A. 4801 S. University Dr., Ste. 203 Davie, FL 33328 Telephone: (954) 680-8000 Email: vincentowoc@msn.com Publish: January 11 & 18, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

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LEGAL NOTICES

EMPLOYMENT

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 24-DR-7-K DIVISION: FAMILY SHANIN OURADA Petitioner, and, ROBERT OURADA, JR. Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE TO: ROBERT OURADA, JR. RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 19442 CANAL DRIVE, SUGARLOAF KEY, FL 33042 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Dissolution of Marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Shanin Ourada, whose address is 50 Sands Road, Big Pine Key, FL 33043 on or before February 10, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings. Dated: January 5, 2024 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Destiny Johnson Deputy Clerk Publish: January 11, 18 & 25 and February 1, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AFTER DEFAULT entered in a case pending in said Court, the 15TH day of December 2023 Syle of which is: WINDWARD POINTE II, LLC, A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Plaintiff vs. KIM BYRDRIDER, et.al Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2022-CC310-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 29TH day of December 2023. KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: January 18 & 25, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: January 18 & 25, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5312, Week 35, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AFTER DEFAULT AS TO COUNT(S) I entered in a case pending in said Court, the 8TH day of December 2023 Syle of which is: WINDWARD POINTE II, LLC, A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Plaintiff vs. JAMES KEFFER, et.al Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2022-CA511-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 29TH day of December 2023. KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: January 18 & 25, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

JAMES KEFFER, et.al Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2022-CA511-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 29TH day of December 2023. KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: January 18 & 25, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

within 60 days after the sale. Publish: January 18 & 25, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

Marathon Auto Air looking for Shop Help - full or part-time. Pay based on experience. Apply in person at 2525 Overseas Highway, Marathon. 305-289-9884

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2022-CC-310-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 1st day of February, 2024 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5111, Week 46, Odd Year Biennial Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2022-CA-511-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 1st day of February, 2024 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5712, Week 2, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AFTER DEFAULT AS TO COUNT(S) IX entered in a case pending in said Court, the 8TH day of December 2023 Syle of which is: WINDWARD POINTE II, LLC, A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Plaintiff vs. JAMES KEFFER, et.al Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2022-CA511-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 29TH day of December 2023. KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2022-CC-223-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 1st day of February, 2024 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5834, Week 16, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AFTER DEFAULT entered in a case pending in said Court, the 14TH day of December 2023 Syle of which is: WINDWARD POINTE II, LLC, A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Plaintiff vs. CHRISTOPHER RAY GRAY, et.al Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2022-CC223-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 29TH day of December 2023. KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: January 18 & 25, 2024 The Weekly Newspaper IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2022-CA-511-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 1st day of February, 2024 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street,

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2022-CA-511-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 1st day of February, 2024 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5134, Week 34, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AFTER DEFAULT AS TO COUNT(S) IV, V entered in a case pending in said Court, the 8TH day of December 2023 Syle of which is: WINDWARD POINTE II, LLC, A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Plaintiff vs.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2022-CC-61-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 1st day of February, 2024 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 221, Week 39, Sunset Harbor Resort, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1376, Page 1093, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (hereafter the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE entered in a case pending in said Court, the 15TH day of December 2023 Syle of which is: SUNSET HARBOR RESORT CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST JUDITH K. WHITE, DECEASED, et.al Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2022-CC61-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 29TH day of December 2023. KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim

AUTOS WANTED

AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not. $CASH 305-332-0483 BOAT SLIP FOR RENT

Boat Dockage for rent in Marathon. Private bay bottom, up to 40' boat, self containing, offshore water, car & dingy parking space provided. 305-610-8002 Place your BOAT SLIP FOR RENT ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today! CAMP SITE

Camping site at marina available in Marathon. 305-610-8002 EMPLOYMENT

Pigeon Key in Marathon is seeking a Customer Service Rep/ Ramp Attendant. to join our island team. Position includes greeting customers, giving information and taking admissions. Outgoing professionals can contact pigeonkey@aol.com for additional details. 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. Looking for happy personality with good customer service skills to complete staff in fun Keys Gift Shop in Marathon. Part time to start. Call 305 731 6947 for appointment. City of Marathon Current Job Openings: Administrative Asst. Fire Department and Right of Way Technician. Full Benefits. EOE Please see City website for details www.ci.marathon.fl.us

Boat rental company in Marathon needs an Outboard Mechanic. Some general marina work, and boat experience a plus. Call 305-481-7006 The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: PT Receptionist, Assistant to Director of Housing, Housing Assistant-Key West, Occupancy & Admissions AssistantKey West, Protective Service Aide, Housing Manager-Middle Keys, HVAC Maintenance Mechanic, and M a i n t e n a n c e M e c h a n i c (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. Place your EMPLOYMENT ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844. HOBBIES/COLLECT.

P R I V A T E C O L L E C T O R WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & W a t c h e s . Call 305-743-4578 HOUSING FOR RENT

LONG TERM Key Largo 2BR/2BA Spacious Doublewide, 1400 sq ft modular on canal w/40’ dock, direct ocean access. Very nice community. $3500/month 786-258-3127

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / JANUARY 18, 2024

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • •305.743.0844 HOUSING FOR RENT

PERSONALS

VACATION RENTAL

2 BR/2.5 BA, Key Largo, furnished, boat slip included up to 28' boat, dockage right behind the unit. Long term or vacation rental. $4,800/ month 305-202-1030

BEACH HOUSE VACATION! Caretaker couple needed for Bahamas Beach House for 3-4 months. Call or text 305-439-9991

Large One Bedroom Suite, Conch House, carpet, tile, appliances, fully furnished in Marathon. Available now. $2,000/month includes electric, water, sewer, cable, internet. No Pets. 305-610-8002

Large RV Waterfront Lot with Dockage for rent in Marathon. Full hook up. $1950/ month plus utilities. F/L/S 305-731-5042

Key West House For Rent 28 day minimum. Recently renovated. 2 Units: 3BR/3BA or 2BR/2.5BA. 1 block to Schooner Wharf @ Historic Seaport. Starting $214/ night. Sweet Caroline S e a p o r t . c o m

2 Bedroom 1 Bath house in Marathon. Tile & carpet floors, new appliances, gated property. No pets. 305-610-8002 Place your Housing For Rent ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844.

RV LOT FOR RENT

Large RV Lot for Rent in Marathon. Full hook up. $1600/ month plus utilities. F/L/S 305-731-5042 Place your RV LOT For Rent ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844.

YARD SALES

GARAGE SALE Saturday, January 20 from 8 am - 2 pm. 131 Zane Grey Creek Dr, Layton MM68

The Turtle Hospital in Marathon

Join our team! Full and part-time

Educational Program Guides/ Gift Shop Sales. Public speaking & retail sales experience helpful. $17.00/hour to start. Send resume to: TurtleHospitalMarathon@gmail.com

Place your YARD SALE ad here. $25.00/ week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

IS HIRING IN THE UPPER KEYS

FULL TIME PROJECT MANAGER BOOKKEEPER

VACATION RENTAL

PERSONALS

Send resume to: admin@cbtconstruction.com Or call: 305-852-3002

SUNSET GRILLE IS HIRING

• Bussers • Hosts • Line Cooks • Waitstaff • Bartenders • Dishwashers • Bar Backs Apply in person at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar, 7 Knight’s Key Blvd, Marathon

DUI EVALUATOR/ INSTRUCTOR The Advocate DUI Program is hiring for part time positions. DUI instructors and evaluators - 2 days a week, Bachelors or Masters degree in substance abuse field required. Bilingual preferred, not required. Office located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.

$$$ OFFICE ASSISTANT $$$

DYNASTY MARINE ASSOCIATES, MARATHON, FL Duties to include invoice and inventory entry, creating and filing paperwork for international shipments, scheduling inspections needed for international shipments, customer communication and tracking, creating and maintaining customer accounts and some customer service. Must be proficient in Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel. This position requires high attention to detail and the ability to multitask. Competitive compensation plus benefits. Benefits package including vacation, sick days, holidays and 401K PSP retirement plan. Please send cover letter and resume to sales@dynastymarine.net for consideration. No phone calls please. dynastymarine.net

EXPERIENCED ELECTRICIANS AND HELPERS NEEDED Experience is required. Must have a valid driver’s license. We offer 401K, medical insurance, paid holidays and paid vacation. Positions available in Key West and Marathon. 305-292-3369

HEAVY DIESEL MECHANIC We are hiring a heavy diesel mechanic with experience working on John Deere, Caterpillar, Kubota, etc. Monday-Friday with some overtime available. Please apply at Charley Toppino & Sons, Inc. 129 Toppino Industrial Dr, Key West – ask for Cheryl 305-296-5606 extension 126

WE ARE HIRING! Assistant Plant Store Manager (FT) 40-hr/wk Good social/business skills, above average computer skills required (knowledge of POS a plus). Knowledge of tropical plants is helpful. Requires a lot of manual labor, must be able to lift at least 50 pounds. Must be able to work weekends and evenings as the season requires. FL driver’s license w/good driving record, references and background screening required. Plant Store/Nursery Associate (PT) Sat–Tues 9AM–5 PM Position requires a min. of high school completion and 1 yr. exp. Must be knowledgeable in tropical plants and have good social/business skills, above average computer skills (knowledge of POS a plus). Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds. English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. FL driver’s license w/good driving record, references and background screening are required. Direct Care Staff /Driver at Adult Day Training Program KW (FT&PT) Mon-Fri This position is available at our Adult Day program. Providing direct care service and support to our clients in the day program. Position requires the minimum of high school completion or GED. FL Driver’s license w/clean driving record, English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. Pre-employment training on-line and in person required. MARC | 1401 Seminary St, Key West | www.marchouse.org

Come join our family! EOE

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE We are now hiring for the following positions:

Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers CDL Drivers Applicants must apply in person to be considered. 4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

JANUARY 18, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC && LEGAL NOTICES • • 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 OPENINGS AVAILABLE TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

PAPA JOE’S WATERFRONT in Islamorada is in final stages of construction and looking forward to an end-of-January opening!!

- Customer Service Coordinator - Medical Technologist, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Medical Technologist, Laboratory - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Radiology, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Ultrasound, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - MH Multiplace Hyperbaric Tech - Pool Group Exercise Instructor - Pool Physical Therapist - Registered Nurse, $25k Sign-on Bonus*

Work with the BEST!

• Health, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance • Tuition Reimbursement • Paid Holidays, Vacation & Sick Time • 401K Employer Match • Quarterly Cash Proﬁt Sharing • Fun, Fast-Paced Environment • Great Hours

Voted Best Bank 2014 - 2023 Key West

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL - Cook, Dietary, $5k Sign-on Bonus* - Emergency Department Team Coordinator - Environmental Tech, $5k Sign-on Bonus* - Manager Food Service - Medical Technologist, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Radiology, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - Patient Care Manager, Emergency Department, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - Patient Experience Advocate - Pharmacy Tech, $4k Sign-on Bonus* - Phlebotomist, Laboratory - Pool Physical Therapist - Registered Nurse, Oncology-Outpatient, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Registered Nurse, Post Anesthesia Care Unit, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Security Officer All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. *Sign-on bonuses are available only for select full-time positions based on candidate experience.

APPLY AND LEARN MORE careers.baptisthealth.net or call 786-243-8507

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

IS HIRING! Volunteer Resources Administrative Assistant (Full-Time, Permanent)

Facilities Maintenance Apprentice

Now accepting applications via email for the following positions: Admin/Office-Manager Assistant General Manager Restaurant/Floor Manager(s) Beverage/Bar Manager Sous Chef(s) Kitchen Manager/Supervisor(s)

Please be sure to attach your resume, contact info, & position(s) of interest. Please No calls, No walk-ins at this time. Thank you.

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS HIRING!

GCC offers excellent benefits for full-time employment, but we realize some would prefer part-time to enjoy the Florida Keys lifestyle more. All positions can be considered for full or part-time unless notated. Apply at westcare.com and enter your availability.

KEY LARGO KEY WEST

Media & Marketing Assistant (Full-Time, Permanent)

Benefits include medical, life & disability insurance, 401(k) plan, paid vacation, sick time & holidays. Full job descriptions available at www.dolphins.org/career_opportunities Email cover letter, DRC application & resume to drc-hr@dolphins.org EOE

Peer Support Specialist Prevention Specialist Advocate Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult) Behavioral Health Counselor (Child) Case Manager (Adult)

MARATHON

Housekeeper Prevention Specialist Admission Specialist Care Coordinator (PT) Driver (CDL) Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult) RNs/LPNs - 3 shifts (also Per Diem) Peer Support Specialist *Support Worker – Assisted Living (PT) *Behavioral Health Technicians 3 shifts (also Per Diem)

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands required.

Teaching... Learning... Caring

Background and drug screen req. COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!! Check out all available positions at: www.westcare.com (search by zip code) EEOC/DFWP

58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL

Apply Online at KeysBank.com/Careers

Equal Housing Lender

EOE-M/F/V/D

CS FIELD REPRESENTATIVE

The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of

Education Program Host Staff Photographer

Information Technology Technician II

Member FDIC

Advocate (PT) Behavioral Health Counselor (Child)

(Full-Time, Part-Time, Seasonal)

Customer Service Representative/ Online Banking

We are now beginning to assemble our management team. If you’re interested in any of these listed employment opportunities, please email your resume to FrankS@PapaJoesWaterfront.com

(Full-Time, Permanent) (Full-Time, Permanent)

Full Time Teller

LOCATION: MARATHON

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority is looking for a Customer ServiceField Rep. to work out of our Marathon Office. This position acts as a liaison between the FKAA and customers out in the field and at the customer’s property. Work involves managing meter reading data and minor repairs to the water distribution system. Must have a High School; Diploma or GED and valid Florida Driver’s License. Must obtain a FDEP Level 3 license w/within 18 mos. of hire date. Salary: $50,376.48 annually. Excellent benefits.

Apply online at www.fkaa.com/212/opportunities EEO, VPE, ADA, DFW

DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATORS LOCATION: MARATHON

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority is looking for Distribution System Operators to perform semi-skilled work, involving the repair and maintenance of FKAA water distribution and transmission systems. We provide on the job training for qualified applicants. Requires a High School, Diploma or GED and valid Florida Driver’s License. Salary: $48,909.19. Excellent benefits and opportunities for advancement. Apply online at www.fkaa.com/212/opportunities EEO, VPE, ADA, DFW

FKAA EMERGENCY WATER PLAN STORE WATER

FILL BATHTUB AND LARGE CONTAINERS WITH WATER FOR WASHING AND FLUSHING ONLY. FOR DRINKING AND COOKING WATER, STORE IN CONTAINERS FOR 7-10 DAYS. 1 GALLON PER PERSON PER DAY IS RECOMMENDED.

FOLLOW PRECAUTIONARY/ MANDATORY BOIL WATER NOTICES IF A NOTICE IS ISSUED, DISINFECT YOUR WATER BY EITHER BOILING FOR 1 MINUTE, OR ADDING 1/8 TEASPOON OF BLEACH, OR USING PURIFICATION TABLETS.

EVACUATING? HERE'S WHAT TO DO SHUT OFF THE HOME'S WATER VALVE (TYPICALLY FOUND ON THE EXTERIOR WALL OF THE HOME). SOME WATER HEATERS MAY ALSO NEED TO BE SHUT OFF. CHECK WITH THE MANUFACTURER. Should you require assistance in turning off your water, FKAA will be happy to come out and turn it off for you, as a courtesy (time permitting).

CUSTOMERS WITH LOW PRESSURE SEWER PUMP ON THEIR PROPERTY ARE ASKED TO SHUT OFF THE BREAKER TO THEIR GRINDER PUMP (LOCATED IN THE DEDICATED ELECTRIC BOX OUTSIDE OF THEIR HOME).

STAY INFORMED REGISTER FOR "PRIORITY CALL" @FKAA.COM TO RECEIVE NOTICES VIA PHONE, TEXT, & EMAIL. FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK, FKAA.COM AND THE RADIO CALL US @ 305.296.2454